Russia Moves Oreshnik Missile Systems Into Belarus
Russia and Belarus have released footage showing deployment of Russian nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile systems in Belarus, marking a notable shift in Russia’s strategic posture in Eastern Europe and NATO’s extended neighborhood. The Belarusian Defense Ministry video showed mobile launcher vehicles and crews preparing the systems for combat duty on Belarusian soil.
The deployment follows earlier announcements that the Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missile had entered service. The footage did not specify the launch sites by name, but observers noted likely activity near a former airfield in eastern Belarus.
Oreshnik: Key Capabilities
The Oreshnik is a Russian intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of carrying either nuclear or conventional warheads. It has been tested at hypersonic speeds above Mach 10 and is designed to be mobile, with road-capable launchers and support vehicles.
The missile’s estimated range, up to around 5,000 to 5,500 kilometers, gives it the ability to reach much of Europe and potentially beyond from Belarus, though exact combat deployment numbers remain unclear.
Strategic and Regional Context
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of President Vladimir Putin, has framed the deployment as a response to perceived Western military pressure. Moscow has emphasized the Oreshnik’s deterrent value amid ongoing tensions over its war in Ukraine and NATO support for Kyiv.
Analysts in the United States and Europe have noted that putting such systems closer to NATO borders could reduce response times to potential targets, while raising concerns about escalation dynamics in the region.
Deployment Footage and Operational Status
The video released by Belarusian authorities showed Oreshnik launchers adorned with camouflage, movement along forest roads, and personnel briefings indicating combat status. The exact number of systems deployed has not been independently confirmed.
Earlier this month, Lukashenko said the first Oreshnik positions were equipped and in combat alert. Moscow and Minsk have previously stated that deployment would occur by the end of 2025
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