Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the completion of testing for the Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile. This claim signifies a major step toward deploying the strategic weapon.
Key Details of the Announcement
Completion of Crucial Tests: Putin stated that the crucial tests for the Burevestnik missile have been concluded.
Test Performance: Russia’s Chief of the General Staff, General Valery Gerasimov, reported that the missile recently flew 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) and remained airborne for about 15 hours during a test on October 21.
Unique Weaponry: Putin characterized the missile as a "unique weapon, one that no other country in the world possesses."
Next Steps: Putin instructed the military to begin the final stage of work, including classifying the weapon and preparing the necessary infrastructure for its deployment.
About the Burevestnik Missile
The Burevestnik (NATO designation: SSC-X-9 Skyfall) is one of the advanced strategic weapons systems Russia has been developing.
Nuclear Propulsion: Its most defining and controversial feature is its nuclear power source, which theoretically gives it an "effectively unlimited range" and an unpredictable flight path.
Invincibility Claim: Russia claims the missile is "invincible" to current and future missile defense systems due to its vast range and maneuverability.
Development History: The project has been surrounded by controversy, including a fatal explosion during a reported test in 2019 that resulted in a brief spike in radioactivity and killed several scientists and servicemen.