R-36O 8K69M8K69M

Manufacturer: Yuzhnoye Design Bureau · Maiden flight: 25 September 1970 · Wikipedia (opens in new tab)

The R-36O was the only orbiting military nuclear weapon ever deployed, although in order to remain legal under international treaties it was a 'fractional orbital' weapon. Although American infrared early warning satellites invalidated the 'surprise attack' component of the concept, 18 missiles were operational from 1969 to 1983.

Recent launches

R-36O 8K69M | OGCh 24

Soviet Space Program · Baikonur Cosmodrome, Republic of Kazakhstan

8 August 1971Save R-36O 8K69M | OGCh 24☆

R-36O 8K69M | OGCh 23

Soviet Space Program · Baikonur Cosmodrome, Republic of Kazakhstan

25 September 1970Save R-36O 8K69M | OGCh 23☆