Russia recently conducted a significant test of its nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile, according to Chief of General Staff Valery Gerasimov. During a meeting with President Vladimir Putin, Gerasimov announced a multi-hour flight of the missile, covering a distance of 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles). He emphasized that this distance is not the weapon’s limit.
Burevestnik Cruise Missile Details
First unveiled in 2018, the Burevestnik missile is an experimental weapon intended to possess an almost unlimited range. This feature allows it to evade existing missile defense systems effectively. However, its strategic value has been a topic of skepticism among Western military experts.
Latest Test Findings
- Date of Test: October 21, 2023
- Flight Duration: 15 hours
- Lateral Maneuverability: Successfully tested and met specifications
Putin claimed that this test marked a “final successful test” for the missile. Still, such assertions remain unverified. According to an arms control organization, out of at least 13 attempted tests since 2016, only two had partial success.
Challenges and Capabilities
The missile’s design and functionality have sparked extensive debates within military circles. A report from the U.S. Air Force’s National Air and Space Intelligence Center highlighted its potential to provide Russia with a unique weapon with intercontinental capabilities. Yet, experts from the International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) have pointed out significant technical challenges ahead.
- Reliable performance of the nuclear propulsion unit is essential.
- Multiple flight-test failures have raised concerns.
- There have been documented accidents leading to fatalities.
According to military sources quoted in the IISS report, the Burevestnik missile may have a range of 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers. This range allows it to be stationed anywhere in Russia while still being capable of reaching targets within continental United States.
Flight Characteristics
The missile is designed to fly extremely low—between 50 to 100 meters above the ground—which complicates interception by air defense systems. NATO has dubbed this missile “Skyfall,” reflecting its advanced capabilities.
Potential Launch Sites
An investigation by Reuters has identified a possible launch facility located 475 kilometers (295 miles) north of Moscow. Analysis of satellite imagery from August 2024 uncovered nine horizontal launch pads under construction at this site.
As Russia continues to develop its Burevestnik missile, both the potential and the challenges associated with it remain subjects of global military interest and scrutiny.
