Russia’s Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile, known as Satan II, reportedly suffered a “catastrophic failure” during a test launch, as indicated by satellite images showing a large crater at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. The RS-28 Sarmat, crucial for modernizing Russia’s nuclear arsenal, has faced delays and testing issues. Analysts suggest the failure occurred soon after ignition, possibly due to a booster malfunction. The Kremlin referred inquiries to the defense ministry, which has not commented. The incident comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and the West due to the Ukraine conflict.