Russia Increasing Test Launches of New SLBM

Because of the most recent test failure of the Bulava SLBM, Russia will be increasing the number of test launches for the missile in 2009.

They had indented to do 3-4 test launches this year, but now they are committing to at least 5 launches.

They have been 5 for 10 on test launches, which is actually better than SLBM tests during the Soviet days, and this indicates a move back to more extensive testing, which I approve.

In reviewing US missile tests, it appears that there is a panic whenever their is a failure, because the test programs here are now based on the idea that everything will be caught in analysis, and that tests should progress without failures.

This does not work, and results in delays and cost escalation.