May 29, 2007 — Following reports of a successful test in Russia today of a more advanced long-range ballistic missile, Russian First Deputy Prime Minister Sergei Ivanov is quoted as saying, "As of today Russia has new (missiles) that are capable of overcoming any existing or future missile defense systems.  So in terms of defense and security Russian can look calmly to the country's future."

Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-02) issued the following statement in response:  “Russia has expressed disapproval of the potential U.S. missile interceptor site in Central Europe to defend against long-range missile attacks from nations such as Iran, claiming it would upset the strategic balance in the region.  After today’s test, in which Russia displayed its continued pursuit of stronger, more advanced long-range missiles, it strikes me as hypocritical that a nation numbered among America’s allies continues to oppose our efforts to secure strong defensive capabilities, while openly pursuing more advanced offensive weapons.  It is clear by Ivanov’s comments that Russia will continue to develop missile capabilities in an effort to become the strongest military power in the world.

“Our enemies in Iran and North Korea have clearly stated their ambitions to develop highly advanced missile technology, and they have demonstrated that they are aggressively pursuing these goals.  We would be deluding ourselves by failing to develop an adequate defense.  Nevertheless, it seems to me that Russia cares less about upsetting the strategic balance than it does about other sovereign nations having capabilities to defend themselves.  Today’s test only affirms the need for the very missile defense funding the Democrats slashed from the Defense Authorization bill last week.  

“I believe we must go forward with the European Site and send a message to our allies in Poland and the Czech Republic that they need not be bullied by the Russian Federation, and if they want our interceptors and radar, they can have them.   Russia is not the only country that should be able to ‘look calmly to the future.’”

According to reports, the new RS-24 missile is intended to replace Russia’s earlier generation intercontinental missile, and can be armed with up to 10 different warheads.  Its development is part of an effort to update and replace Russia’s military, weaponry, and hardware dating from the Cold War.  Missiles carrying multiple independently targeted warheads are more difficult to intercept and destroy completely once they have been fired.