While we have been distracted, Russia has safely tested its Burevestnik cruise missile. The weapon’s turbojet engine is nuclear-powered, and the weapon itself is designed to carry a nuclear warhead. In an unnerving briefing, President Vladimir Putin unveiled the missile. He pointed to its claimed powers and focused on its importance for Russian military modernization. Burevestnik, known as SSC-X-9 Skyfall by NATO, is a new highly touted weapon system. It seeks to provide Russia the edge in strategic initiative across the spectrum of warfare.
On October 21, the operational test occurred. The entire test lasted as the hypersonic cruise missile traveled for a remarkable 14,000 kilometers (8,700 miles) and remained in flight lasting 15 hours approximately. This long-range capability underscores the Burevestnik’s potential as a formidable addition to Russia’s arsenal. Operational success Valery Gerasimov, Russia’s chief of the General Staff, seemed to confirm details of the test, underscoring the missile’s operational success.
Given the Burevestnik’s design, which includes a nuclear reactor, this raises serious safety and environmental concerns. As it travels through the atmosphere, the missile can produce radioactive exhaust, giving it the sinister moniker of “flying Chornobyl.” This name underscores widespread, serious anxieties about its impacts on human health. It further alarms critics with concerns over what its widespread use will mean if deployed in war zones.
The development of the Burevestnik has been marked by tragedy. After all, a still mysterious nuclear accident in Russia made headlines in August 2019. Tragically, five of the scientists died in the course of their work modeling missile-related projects. In a surprise ceremony that followed, Putin presented decorated the victims’ families with posthumous decorations. He lauded their efforts to create what he deemed an “unparalleled” weapon.
The Burevestnik’s announced capabilities have sparked mixed reactions from observers abroad. Many experts hail this move as a big step forward in hypersonic missile technology. Some have raised alarms about how its deployment might affect global security and stability. The missile’s ability to carry nuclear warheads raises questions about escalation in potential conflicts, particularly amidst ongoing tensions between Russia and NATO member states.