Russia has successfully tested a new nuclear-capable cruise missile, designed to evade existing defenses, moving closer to its potential deployment in the country’s military, as confirmed by President Vladimir Putin. This announcement is part of Russia’s strategic nuclear posturing amid ongoing tensions with the West over Ukraine and warnings against any Western military actions deep within Russian territory.
The Burevestnik missile, previously tested over several years, was highlighted in a video released by the Kremlin, showing Putin in military attire receiving a briefing from Gen. Valery Gerasimov, detailing the missile’s impressive performance in a recent test, covering 14,000 kilometers. Gerasimov mentioned that the missile operated for 15 hours on nuclear power during the test but hinted that it could achieve even greater endurance.
The Burevestnik, known as the “storm petrel” in Russian, is shrouded in secrecy, with limited information available. Western experts have expressed doubts about its reliability due to its nuclear propulsion system. Initially revealed by Putin in 2018, the missile was touted to have an unlimited range, capable of circumnavigating the globe undetected by enemy missile defenses.
Despite concerns raised by observers about the challenges and potential environmental risks associated with such a weapon, Putin emphasized the necessity of preparing the infrastructure for its integration into the armed forces. The Burevestnik had a setback in 2019 when it reportedly exploded during tests, resulting in casualties and a brief spike in radiation levels.
Putin asserted that the missile’s capabilities make it impervious to existing and future missile defense systems, attributing this to its extensive range and unpredictable flight trajectory. A top aide of Putin informed U.S. counterparts of the successful testing of the Burevestnik, labeling it as a groundbreaking weapon system.
In parallel, recent drills conducted by Russia’s strategic nuclear forces involved missile launches and showcased Moscow’s nuclear triad capabilities, including intercontinental ballistic missiles and strategic bombers firing cruise missiles. These exercises, overseen by Putin, aimed to demonstrate the readiness and proficiency of Russia’s military command structures.
The missile test revelations coincided with Russia’s deployment of drones in Ukraine, resulting in civilian casualties. Multiple attacks in Kyiv claimed lives and prompted urgent appeals for Western support from Ukrainian authorities. The escalating situation underscores the ongoing tensions and potential ramifications of military actions in the region.
