Belarus Considering Nuclear Warheads for Polonez Rocket Artillery Systems

This high-precision weapon requires ongoing adjustments, having been developed in collaboration with China and later modernized by Belarusian enterprises.

EASTERN EUROPE — Belarus is evaluating options to equip its Polonez multiple launch rocket systems with nuclear warheads, as the State Secretary of the Security Council, Aleksandr Volfovich, described the system as state-of-the-art with a missile range increased from 124 miles (200 kilometers) to 186 miles (300 kilometers).

Polonez MLRS. Credit: Homoatrox, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

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This high-precision weapon requires ongoing adjustments, having been developed in collaboration with China and later modernized by Belarusian enterprises.

Volfovich indicated that technologies from the Russian Oreshnik ballistic missile could be integrated into joint projects, marking a shift for Belarus, which has no prior experience in missile production and has traditionally focused on manufacturing tractors, trucks, and buses.

Current efforts stem from a decision to enhance capabilities. Volfovich noted that Western countries and the United States have systems with ranges of 373 miles (600 kilometers) or more.

Belarus hosts Russian tactical nuclear weapons under agreements with Moscow, though these remain under Russian control and separate from Belarusian systems.

However, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has made statements suggesting Belarus has operational involvement or decision-making authority over their use, which contrasts with Russian President Vladimir Putin's assertions that Russia maintains sole control.

No announcements of immediate deployment for nuclear-equipped Polonez have been made, with the focus remaining on exploratory discussions as of August 21, 2025.

Missile production is viewed as important for sovereignty, while the enhanced range of the Polonez offers operational benefits, and collaborative work with Russia continues in this area. Official comments highlight the need for advancements in missile technology.

Strategic Deterrence Factors, Implications: