RS-28 Sarmat vs Minuteman III: The Ultimate ICBM Face-off

The global balance of power rests, in part, on the shoulders of strategic deterrents like intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). Among the most well-known ICBMs in the world are the Russian RS-28 Sarmat and the American LGM-30G Minuteman III. These two missiles represent the pinnacle of their respective countries’ nuclear triads and embody decades of military innovation, geopolitics, and deterrence theory.

This article provides a comprehensive comparison between the RS-28 Sarmat, also known as Satan II, and the Minuteman III, analyzing their technical specs, strike capabilities, deployment, and strategic significance.

Overview: Titans of Nuclear Strategy

RS-28 Sarmat (Russia)

The RS-28 Sarmat is a fifth-generation heavy ICBM developed by Russia to replace the aging R-36M2 Voyevoda (NATO reporting name: SS-18 Satan). It is part of Russia’s effort to modernize its nuclear arsenal and counter U.S. missile defense systems.

Minuteman III (USA)

The LGM-30G Minuteman III, introduced in the 1970s, is the only land-based ICBM currently in service with the United States. Though older than Sarmat, the Minuteman III has undergone multiple life extension programs and continues to play a crucial role in the U.S. nuclear posture.

Technical Specifications: Power vs Precision

Payload and Strike Capabilities

RS-28 Sarmat: Multi-MIRV Supremacy

The Sarmat is designed for massive destructive power, capable of carrying multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs) — up to 15 lighter ones or 10 heavy warheads. It can also carry hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs) like Avangard, making it highly unpredictable and nearly impossible to intercept.

Furthermore, it includes decoys, penetration aids, and the ability to launch on non-polar trajectories, bypassing traditional missile defense systems by attacking from unconventional directions (e.g., via the South Pole).

Minuteman III: Precision and Reliability

Though it carries only a single warhead today (due to arms control treaties like New START), the Minuteman III remains extremely accurate, with a circular error probable (CEP) of under 100 meters. Its lighter payload enhances speed and makes it ideal for high-priority, first-strike or counterforce missions.

The U.S. has also maintained its effectiveness through constant modernization of propulsion, targeting, and guidance systems.

Modernization and Upgrades

RS-28 Sarmat

Russia claims the Sarmat will remain in service for decades, designed with the latest counter-defense technologies, including:

• Hypersonic gliders

• Hardened silos

• Shorter boost phase (reduces intercept vulnerability)

It represents Russia’s strategic response to U.S. advancements in missile defense and space-based tracking.

Minuteman III

Despite being over 50 years old, the Minuteman III is still operational due to:

• Guidance replacement programs
• Flight control modernization
• Propulsion system upgrades

However, the U.S. is preparing to replace Minuteman III with the Sentinel (GBSD) missile system starting in the 2030s, which will bring more stealth and flexibility.

Strategic Roles in Nuclear Doctrine

RS-28 Sarmat

• Core of Russia’s land-based nuclear deterrent
• Capable of devastating large geographic areas
• Used in countervalue targeting (cities, infrastructure)
• Designed to penetrate and overwhelm missile defenses

Minuteman III

• Part of the U.S. nuclear triad (alongside bombers and submarines)
• Primarily serves deterrence and second-strike roles
• Ideal for high-value, precision strikes
• Demonstrates U.S. commitment to rapid-response capability