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Two American researchers believe they have uncovered the probable deployment site for Russia’s 9M370 Burevestnik, a nuclear-powered cruise missile President Vladimir Putin has called “invincible.” The missile, designed to carry a nuclear payload, has drawn widespread concern from Western defence experts since it was first unveiled.
According to the researchers, who are affiliated with the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, the likely base for the missile is located in Novaya Zemlya, a remote Arctic archipelago that has long been a hub for Russian military activity. Satellite imagery and other publicly available data indicate increased construction and infrastructure development in the area, signalling preparations for potential missile deployment.
The Burevestnik missile, known as “Skyfall” in NATO circles, is a unique addition to Russia’s expanding military arsenal. Powered by a nuclear reactor, it has a virtually unlimited range, allowing it to evade conventional missile defence systems by flying low and taking unpredictable routes. Putin has repeatedly touted the missile’s ability to strike anywhere in the world, describing it as a game-changer in Russia’s defence strategy.
However, the missile’s development has been fraught with challenges. Several test flights have reportedly ended in failure, raising doubts about the missile’s operational status. Despite these setbacks, Russia has continued to invest in the project, viewing the Burevestnik as crucial to its efforts to modernize its nuclear forces.
The potential deployment of this missile has heightened tensions between Russia and Western powers. The U.S. and NATO allies have expressed concerns over the destabilizing impact of the Burevestnik, especially given its ability to bypass existing missile defence systems. The missile is part of a broader push by Russia to enhance its nuclear capabilities, which also includes hypersonic weapons and underwater drones.