R-36M and R-36M UTTH (15PO14 and 15PO18) Missile Complex

One of the radical engineering solutions, related to the 15PO14 missile complex and subsequent complexes and to a considerable extent determining their high performance level, was a so-called ‘mortar launch’ of the missile from a transportation and launch container (TLC). For the first time in world practice, the mortar launch was developed and implemented for a heavy liquid-propellant intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

At the factory, the missile was fully assembled, mated to the systems to be accommodated on the TLC, and checked. Featuring a high-tensile glass-fiber plastic case, the TLC had a passive humidity maintenance system to protect the missile in the silo launcher.

15А14 (SS-18 Mod 1, 2, 3) Missile 

The first missile of the third generation to incorporate new approaches to the development of multiple reentry vehicles, missile pneumohydraulic systems (which ensured a complete pressurization, or ampulization), and oxidizer and fuel tank preliminary pressurization systems.

The 15А14 missile lifted off from a transportation and launch container. This launch platform demanded significant design changes in the missile configuration, but ultimately enabled the designers to greatly improve missile performance characteristics.

Altogether 95 launches were conducted.

15А18 (SS-18 Mod 4) Missile

The missile was derived from the 15А14; guidance stage, guidance and control system, aiming system were upgraded; a 10-warhead MIRV was incorporated: it was capable of killing up to 10 targets while penetrating an enemy’s effective missile defense system.

62 launches were conducted, 90% of them successful.

15А14 and 15А18 Missile Basic Specifications