This article examines the development and potential deployment of Russia’s controversial 9M370 Burevestnik (SSC-X-9 Skyfall) nuclear-powered cruise missile. Despite its theoretical capabilities and the potential to evade missile defenses, the missile has faced significant technical challenges and a poor testing record, raising questions about its operational viability and the risks it poses.
Two U.S. researchers have identified a construction project in Vologda, Russia, believed to be the deployment site for Russia’s new nuclear-powered cruise missile, the 9M370 Burevestnik. The site is near a nuclear warhead storage facility and features nine horizontal launch pads protected by berms, suggesting Russia is progressing with the missile’s deployment despite its uncertain test history.
Two US researchers claim to have identified the probable deployment site in Russia of the Burevestnik, a controversial nuclear-powered cruise missile touted by President Vladimir Putin as ‘invincible.’ While the missile’s deployment is raising concerns among Western experts, its strategic value and reliability remain debatable due to a poor test record and potential for radiation risks.
