Russia confirms plans to deploy Iskander missile systems to Kaliningrad
Chairman of the Russian State Duma Committee on Defense and ex-commander of the Russian Black Sea Fleet, Admiral Vladimir Komoedov, confirmed Russia’s plans to deploy nuclear-capable Iskander missiles to Kaliningrad, Interfax reported.
"Kaliningrad is our advanced outpost on the western borders, the main base of the Baltic Fleet, which is surrounded by NATO countries on all sides. This is a special area and we must continue to strengthen the air component, [and] increase the amount of modern equipment in the army. The existence of plans to place the Iskander missile sysems have been repeatedly stated,” Komoedov said.
The Chairman also noted that Russia is currently in the process of strengthening the Baltic Fleet.
The long-range missiles would replace the short-range Tochka-U systems that are currently stationed in the Baltic exclave.
The Iskander is a mobile system that can launch two guided missiles up to 500 kilometers (300 miles).
Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoygu says Moscow has the right to deploy Iskander systems anywhere on its territory.