Secret NATO Document Reveals Concerns Over New Russian Weaponry
BRUSSELS - A newly surfaced NATO document details growing concerns about advanced Russian weapons systems,warning the alliance faces significant challenges in countering their capabilities. The assessment, reportedly compiled by NATO’s intelligence department, highlights three specific weapons – a long-range cruise missile, the SS-X-28 medium-range mobile missile (known as Oriesznik or leszczyna), and the Poseidon submarine – as posing critical threats.
The document warns that the new cruise missile will likely be operational within two to three years, and its “extreme range and maneuverability” will “exacerbate existing challenges” for NATO. Experts are also focused on the SS-X-28, first tested a year ago, which has a range of up to 5,500 km and the potential to carry nuclear warheads. The assessment notes its “ability to attack targets across europe” and high survivability due to its mobility present a significant defense challenge.
Further complicating matters is the anticipated deployment of Poseidon submarines by 2030. these submarines, designed to potentially “destroy naval bases, ports and coastal cities in the Pacific, the East Coast of the United States, the United Kingdom and France,” are “arduous to detect and attack when in deep waters.” Critically, the document states NATO currently lacks “anti-submarine torpedoes with the necessary speed and range” to effectively counter the Poseidon class.
The assessment underscores NATO’s vulnerabilities in medium and long-range capabilities, particularly regarding nuclear defense. While NATO possesses a stronger overall deterrent than Russia, the document suggests the topic of nuclear defense receives comparatively less attention in political discourse. The intelligence report also casts doubt on the reliability of Russian claims regarding weapon readiness,stating,”Claims that weapons are ready for use do not mean they are military-grade or reliable.”
