Russia has successfully test-fired an intercontinental nuclear-capable missile. 

President Vladimir Putin claims the ballistic missile, dubbed ‘Satan 2’ will make Moscow’s enemies “think twice”.

Satan 2 is designed to elude anti-missile defence systems by using a short initial boost phase that leaves enemy surveillance systems with a tiny window to track.

It can travel 10,000 kilometres and is believed to be so powerful it could destroy an area the size of France.

Putin has previously described the weapon as ‘invincible’.

ANU Centre for European Studies research fellow Sonia Mycak says military experts still believe it would be counter-productive for Russia to take nuclear measures.

“Even just for the reason that the prevailing winds would actually blow all that radiation back onto Russia,” she told Sofie Formica.

“I think it’s still largely being seen as a threat, a form of blackmail.”

Press PLAY below to hear the full interview 

Image: Reuters / Twitter