Russian missile test failure and government denial...

Apparently, that much anticipated Russian military exercise culminated in
the disintegration of one of their showpiece weapons, the SS-N-23 ICBM. Two
were supposed to be launched from a nuclear sub, but one exploded shortly
after launch, and the other one was called off. This was of course followed
by a prompt official denial, and statement referring to the exercise as a
total success. The Russian media naturally didn't even mention it.

Well I guess that this one really blew up in their face (no pun intended).
This little display was meant to show the world (i.e. the USA) that Russia
still maintained a lethal and reliable deterrent, but now all they have done
is demonstrated exactly how bad the situation with their military truly is.
If they can't even launch two missiles under ideal peaceful conditions,
during a test planned and rehearsed several months in advance, then how can
they be expected to perform under spontaneous wartime conditions? If
anything, I am far less concerned about Russian nuclear capability now then
ever before.

http://www.spacewar.com/2004/040218161827.uu2xifpy.html

http://www.spacewar.com/2004/040217164152.pa3knwh6.html