Russia and Belarus conduct nuclear force exercises involving strategic and tactical weapons (osw.waw.pl)

• Exercises held 19–21 May 2026, involved strategic and tactical nuclear forces.
• More than 65,000 troops, 200 launchers, 140 aircraft, 73 surface vessels, 13 submarines (8 SSBNs) participated.
• New elements: hypersonic missiles (Kinzhal, Zircon) as nuclear delivery systems; Belarusian Armed Forces involvement.
• Political aim: deter European NATO states from supporting Ukraine, reinforce domestic belief in Russian nuclear superiority.
• Sineva missile used from older Project 667BDRM submarine, possibly to extend service life or dispose of older stocks.

"On 19–21 May 2026, Russian Armed Forces held comprehensive nuclear exercises with strategic and tactical components, including joint simulated use of tactical nuclear weapons with Belarus. The drills involved over 65,000 troops, 200 launchers, 140 aircraft, 73 surface vessels, and 13 submarines. New elements included hypersonic missiles (Kinzhal, Zircon) as nuclear delivery systems and Belarusian participation. The exercises were routine biennial drills but politically aimed at intimidating European NATO states and signaling Russia's readiness for nuclear escalation over Ukraine."