Russia plans to deploy Oreshnik missile systems in Belarus with minimal infrastructure costs

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that the deployment of the Oreshnik missile system in Belarus is expected to be possible in the second half of 2025, with minimal expenditure required.

"Regarding the potential placement of such a powerful weapon as Oreshnik on the territory of Belarus, as we have signed a security guarantee agreement involving all available forces and means, I believe it is possible to deploy these systems, such as Oreshnik, in the Republic of Belarus," Putin said following the session of the Supreme State Council of the Union State, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

He added that the deployment could take place in the latter half of the coming year. "By that time, according to our preliminary calculations, we will establish serial production," Putin stated.

He added that the supply of the Oreshnik missile systems to Belarus would proceed as the serial production of such systems in Russia increases and as these systems are delivered to the Russian strategic forces. 

"Of course, there are a number of technical issues that need to be addressed by specialists, particularly determining the minimum range while considering the security priorities of the Republic of Belarus," said the Russian president.

He emphasised that experts would need to work on these matters.

"I believe such capabilities are achievable, especially since it will require minimal expenditure," Putin concluded.

He explained that Belarus still retains certain infrastructure capabilities from the Soviet era. 

"Therefore, the deployment of such systems in Belarus will incur minimal costs for infrastructure preparation," he added.

"Of course, despite the fact that these Oreshnik missile systems will be part of Russia's Strategic Rocket Forces, the decision on targeting locations within a potential adversary's territory will, without a doubt, remain with the military and political leadership of Belarus. This is obvious," Putin said.

He suggested discussing the details in a working format. "One thing should be made clear right away, and specialists understand this well: the shorter the range of the system, the greater the power of its warhead," Putin noted.

Earlier, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko reminded Putin of the successful test launch of the Oreshnik and requested the deployment of these missile systems in Belarus.

By Naila Huseynova