Russians say missile test successful

MOSCOW, Oct. 16 (UPI) -- A short-range missile defense system was successfully tested Tuesday in Kazakhstan, Russian officials said.

The test was intended to evaluate the effectiveness of interceptor missiles deployed as part of the Russian A-135 anti-ballistic missile network, RIA Novosti reported.

Lt. Gen. Valery Bratishenko, deputy commander of aerospace forces, said the missile destroyed a test target "in the time set" at the Sary Shagan range.

The missile network is deployed around Moscow. It consists of a radar system and two types of anti-ballistic missiles.

Some 12 to 16 SH-08 Gazelle interceptor missiles are at five launch sites. The missiles are tested annually at the Sary Shagan test site.