According to various Nordic and Chinese reports published in recent days, the Russian Armed Forces are reportedly preparing to conduct a test launch of the new Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile — the first of its kind in the world — with which Moscow would seek to send a strong deterrent message to the West. The news stems from information indicating the movement of a group of five Russian ships toward the eastern Barents Sea, near the Novaya Zemlya test site, as Russian authorities issued an order to close the airspace in the region, effective since August 7.
Further reinforcing this possibility, open-source intelligence (OSINT) sources and U.S. media also revealed that at least one WC-135R aircraft from the U.S. Air Force was reportedly deployed to monitor the northwestern Russian regions, where several bases equipped with nuclear weapons are known to be located. This is particularly noteworthy, given that these aircraft are capable of detecting nuclear traces in the atmosphere.
It should be recalled that the Burevestnik is a ground-launched cruise missile not only equipped with a nuclear propulsion system but also capable of carrying nuclear warheads. Originally presented as a project in 2018 by Russian President Vladimir Putin, the missile is distinguished by a range considerably greater than that of its conventionally powered counterparts, as it is not limited by the amount of onboard fuel — unlike those equipped with turbojet or turbofan engines.
In concrete numbers, Russian publications in 2021 pointed to an estimated theoretical range of no less than 20,000 kilometers, which, if confirmed, would mean that missiles launched from within Russia could easily reach potential targets anywhere in the United States. In addition, it was reported that the Burevestnik flies at an altitude of between 50 and 100 meters, which — if true — would make it difficult for current air defense systems to detect and intercept. However, it is important to note that these capabilities have not yet been officially verified.
Looking back at some important precedents related to testing this advanced missile, it is worth noting a problematic series of failed trials, particularly with its nuclear propulsion system. The most notable of these occurred in 2019, when an explosion in the White Sea was followed by strong radioactive traces, resulting in the deaths of five Russian nuclear scientists. In this regard, the current tests would serve to assess whether the previous problems have been resolved.
Finally, it should be noted that the tests would take place on dates of great diplomatic relevance regarding the war in Ukraine, as Putin is scheduled to meet with his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump to seek an end to the conflict. As reported by Escenario Mundial, the meeting is set to take place this Friday in Alaska, standing out, among other things, for the absence of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the various European allies who have contributed to the country’s defense against the Russian offensive.
*Images used for illustrative purposes
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