The Russian military successfully test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile yesterday as part of work to extend the weapon's service life, according to Interfax New Agency.

 

The Topol RS-12 missile was fired from the Plesetsk launch pad in northwestern Russia and hit its target on the Kura testing ground on the Kamchatka Peninsula in the Far East, about 7,000 km east of Moscow, Interfax reported.

 

"The missile was test-fired to confirm stability of its flight and technical parameters in order to lengthen its service life," said Maj. Gen. Vitaly Seliverstov of the Strategic Rocket Forces.

 

The Topol missiles have been deployed by the Russian military since 1985. The missile has a maximum range of 10,000 km.

 

Earlier, Lt Gen. Vitaly Linnik, deputy commander of the Space Troops, said the Topol missiles would be in service until 2015.

 

(Xinhua News Agency August 4, 2006)