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R-36O 8K69

R-36O familyYuzhnoye Design BureauRetired

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.

R-36O 8K69 vehicle

Specifications

Thrust
2,366 kN
Height
32.6 m
Diameter
3 m
Launch mass
182 t
Stages
2

Specifications from Launch Library. Figures the operator has not published are omitted.

Flight record

21flightswith a definitive outcome
90.5%success rate19 of 21
14success streakcurrent

Counted from padside's own launch record, the same basis as the stats page.

Flights

5 of 21

All 21 flights