SS-13 Savage

missile

Also known as: Savage

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July 14, 2026

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The SS-13 Savage was a Soviet solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) that became operational in 1969. It was capable of carrying a 750-kiloton warhead over 5,000 miles. The development of solid-fueled missiles marked a significant advancement, offering advantages in storage, safety, and reaction time compared to earlier liquid-fueled systems. However, early solid fuels presented challenges with ignition and throttling. The SS-13 Savage was part of a generation of missiles that aimed to improve strategic capabilities.12

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rocket and missile system
From liquid to solid fuel
…Soviet solid-fueled ICBM was the SS-13 Savage, which became operational in 1969. This missile could carry a 750-kiloton warhead more than 5,000 miles. Because the Soviet Union deployed several other liquid-fueled ICBMs between 1962 and 1969, Western specialists speculated that the Soviets experienced engineering difficulties in producing solid propellants.
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…Soviet solid-fueled ICBM was the SS-13 Savage, which became operational in 1969. This missile could carry a 750-kiloton warhead more than 5,000 miles. Because the Soviet Union deployed several other liquid-fueled ICBMs between 1962 and 1969, Western specialists speculated that the Soviets experienced engineering difficulties in producing solid propellants.
Read More