Russia launched four ICBMs including silo, mobile vehicle and submarine based missiles.  It was a test of Russia’s command and control capability and ability to launch multiple missiles.  Two other short range missiles were fired as well as Russian S300 and S400 missiles that intercepted ballistic missiles.

Mark Schneider, an arms control specialist and policy analyst at the National Institute for Public Policy said, “Minimum deterrence advocates like to ignore these exercises,”  “I think they are very important and point out the need to maintain a strong triad” of missiles, submarines, and bombers.