Two U.S. researchers have pinpointed the potential deployment site for Russia’s new nuclear-powered cruise missile, the 9M370 Burevestnik. The site, located in Vologda, Russia, approximately 295 miles north of Moscow, has sparked concerns about Russia’s escalating military activity.
Using satellite images from Planet Labs, researchers Decker Eveleth and Jeffery Lewis identified a construction project adjacent to a nuclear warhead storage facility known as Vologda-20 or Chebsara. The project features nine horizontal launch pads under construction, shielded by high berms. This construction, coupled with the site’s proximity to a nuclear warhead storage facility, has led the researchers to conclude that it is likely intended for the Burevestnik missile, also known as SSC-X-9 Skyfall by NATO.
The Burevestnik missile, touted by Russian President Vladimir Putin as having an almost unlimited range and the ability to evade U.S. missile defenses, has been a subject of both intrigue and skepticism. While its potential capabilities are alarming, some Western experts question its strategic value and highlight its potential risks, including radiation hazards.
The identification of this deployment site underscores Russia’s continued development and potential deployment of the Burevestnik missile, despite its checkered test history. The development comes amidst heightened tensions between Russia and Western nations, with Russia showcasing its military capabilities through various actions, including nuclear exercises and missile tests.
In May, Russia announced plans for a tactical nuclear weapons exercise, citing perceived threats from Western nations. This move was seen as a response to what Russia described as “provocative statements and threats” from the West. In November, Russia successfully tested an intercontinental ballistic missile from its new nuclear submarine, Emperor Alexander III, further emphasizing its military prowess.
These developments highlight the growing concerns about Russia’s nuclear posture and its potential for escalation. The identification of the Burevestnik missile deployment site adds another layer of complexity to the existing tensions between Russia and the West, raising questions about the future of global security and the potential for conflict.
