Satellite images suggest Russia tests ‘nuclear-armed’ cruise missile.
Data Suggests Russia is Testing a Nuclear Missile Capable of Reaching Far Beyond Its Borders
Recent data collected in Russia’s remote north indicates that Moscow may be conducting tests on a missile with the ability to deliver a nuclear warhead far outside the country’s boundaries. This activity, observed near a base in Russia’s north, suggests that Moscow is once again running tests on the missile known as Burevestnik or SSC-X-9 Skyfall. Satellite imagery and aviation data from the area support this analysis, as reported by The New York Times.
In 2018, Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly announced the development of the Burevestnik missile, along with four other rockets. However, previous tests of the nuclear-powered missile between 2017 and 2019 were unsuccessful, with one test resulting in the tragic deaths of seven individuals, according to the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI).
The NTI report describes the Burevestnik as a nuclear-powered, nuclear-tipped subsonic cruise missile designed to have a range of approximately 23,000 km (14,000 mi). It is considered a “second-strike, strategic-range weapon of a type that has not been deployed by any other nation.”
Notably, Russia issued an aviation notice on August 31, warning of a “temporary danger area” around the missile base in the north. This warning has been extended multiple times and is currently scheduled to last until October 6. Satellite images captured over the past month reveal activity at the base, including the presence of a truck and trailer resembling the dimensions of the missile, as well as a moveable shelter that intermittently reveals and conceals the launch site.
Increased surveillance by the U.S. Air Force in the area suggests that the U.S. military has also taken notice of the heightened Russian activity.
If the missile is indeed being tested, it would likely fall under the regulation of the U.S.-Russia New START treaty, which aims to curb nuclear proliferation between the two superpowers. However, Moscow has been accused of violating the treaty on multiple occasions. The agreement is set to expire in February 2026.
In 2020, former President Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Open Skies treaty with Russia, citing Russian violations. There were concerns that Trump would also allow the New START treaty to lapse in February 2021, but President Joe Biden assumed office the month prior.
Experts closely monitoring the war in Ukraine have expressed concerns about Russia’s nuclear stockpile. Some argue that Ukraine should be compelled to reach a settlement with Russia to mitigate the risk of Moscow resorting to the use of nuclear weapons on the battlefield.
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In June, President Biden acknowledged the real threat posed by Russia’s nuclear capabilities. During a speech to donors in California, he compared the initial skepticism he faced when expressing concerns about the drying up of the Colorado River to the skepticism he encountered when discussing the potential use of tactical nuclear weapons by Putin. He emphasized that these concerns are indeed real.
What are the potential risks and implications of the Burevestnik missile’s ability to evade existing missile defense systems
In the White Sea and advising aircraft to avoid the area due to missile tests being conducted from September 1 to 2. This notice further supports the notion that Russia is indeed testing the Burevestnik missile.
The Burevestnik missile has raised concerns among experts and analysts around the world due to its nuclear-powered capabilities. Unlike traditional missiles that rely on chemical propulsion, the Burevestnik uses a small nuclear reactor to provide propulsion and allow for extended flight times. This nuclear propulsion system gives the missile an unprecedented range and the ability to evade existing missile defense systems.
The development and testing of the Burevestnik missile have been met with mixed reactions. Supporters argue that the missile provides Russia with a credible deterrent against potential adversaries. The missile’s long-range capability ensures that even in the event of a preemptive strike, Russia would still be capable of retaliating with devastating force. This, proponents argue, strengthens Russia’s national security and its position in global politics.
However, critics express significant concerns regarding the development and potential deployment of the Burevestnik missile. The nuclear-powered propulsion system presents various safety and environmental risks. Accidents or malfunctions during flight could result in a nuclear disaster, causing widespread environmental contamination and endangering civilian populations.
Moreover, the missile’s ability to evade existing missile defense systems raises questions about strategic stability and arms control. The Burevestnik’s extended flight time enables it to take unpredictable flight paths, making it difficult to intercept and neutralize. This undermines efforts to maintain a balance of power and could spur an arms race as other nations seek to develop similar capabilities to counter the threat posed by the Burevestnik.
The recent testing of the Burevestnik missile by Russia highlights the evolving dynamics of global security and the increasing sophistication of military technology. It serves as a reminder of the importance of robust arms control agreements and international collaboration to address emerging threats to global stability.
In response to Russia’s actions, it is crucial for the international community to engage in open dialogue and diplomatic efforts to manage and mitigate the potential risks posed by the Burevestnik missile. Cooperation among nations is essential to uphold global security and prevent a further escalation of tensions.
As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for countries to carefully assess the implications of Russia’s nuclear missile testing and work towards finding peaceful and diplomatic solutions. The international community must remain vigilant and committed to ensuring the preservation of peace and stability in a world where nuclear weapons continue to pose significant risks.
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