On August 26, 1957, the Soviet Union successfully launched the R-7, the worlds first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). This marked a turning point in the Cold War, as it demonstrated the Soviets ability to strike the U.S. mainland with nuclear weapons. The event led to heightened tensions between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, further intensifying the arms race. The threat of nuclear war became more palpable as both superpowers pursued advanced military technologies. The missile crisis was one of the key moments in the Cold War arms race.