INTERNATIONAL: Russia said on Wednesday 20th April it had test-launched its Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, a new addition to its nuclear arsenal which President Vladimir Putin said would give Moscow's enemies something to think about.

Putin was shown on television being told by the military that the missile had been launched from Plesetsk in the country's northwest and hit targets in the Kamchatka peninsula in the Far East.

"Dear comrades! I congratulate you on the successful launch of the intercontinental ballistic missile Sarmat. This is a big, momentous event in the development of the Russian army's advanced weapon systems. The new complex has the highest tactical and technical characteristics and can penetrate all modern anti-missile defenses. It has no analogues in the world and will not have any for a long time to come. This truly unique weapon will strengthen the combat potential of our armed forces, reliably ensure Russia's security from external threats and provide food for thought for those who, in the heat of frenzied aggressive rhetoric, try to threaten our country." Putin announced publicly.

The Sarmat is a new heavy Intercontinental Ballistic Missile which Russia is expected to deploy with 10 or more warheads on each missile, according to the U.S. Congressional Research Service.

It has been under development for years and so its test-launch is not a surprise for the West, but it comes at a moment of extreme geopolitical tension due to Russia's war in Ukraine.

^{PHOTO: FOOTAGE OF WHAT IS SAID TO BE LAUNCH OF NEW BALLITSTIC MISSILE SARMAT / PUTIN SPEAKING ABOUT MISSILE}