Russia maintains one of the world’s most significant intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) forces as part of its nuclear deterrent.

RS-28 Sarmat, RS-24 Yars, Satan and more: The missiles at the core of Russia’s ICBM arsenal

A missile is considered hypersonic when it travels at Mach 5 or faster, which is more than 6,100 km/h. At these speeds, atmospheric friction generates extreme heat, meaning the weapon must use specialised materials and guidance systems capable of performing under intense pressure.

'Missiles travelling 6,100 km/h': What makes a missile ‘hypersonic’ and which countries already have them?

According to a defence ministry TV station aired on Thursday, Russia’s rocket forces placed an intercontinental ballistic missile outfitted with the nuclear-capable “Avangard” hypersonic glide vehicle into a launch silo in southern Russia.

Russia loads 'Avangard' missile into launch Silo, fears of nuclear warfare on rise | World DNA

Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told President Vladimir Putin on Friday that the country's first Avangard hypersonic missiles have been put into service, an official statement said.

Russia says first Avangard hypersonic missiles enter service

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