Russia appears to be preparing a test launch of its Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile (NATO designation: SSC-X-9 Skyfall), according to satellite imagery analyzed by U.S. researchers and a Western security source cited by Reuters. The timing coincides with President Vladimir Putin’s planned meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump this Friday to discuss Ukraine.
Signs of Test Preparation
Jeffrey Lewis of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Eveleth of the CNA think tank independently reviewed Planet Labs satellite photos over the Pankovo test site on the Novaya Zemlya archipelago. They reported heightened activity, including the delivery of large quantities of supplies, increased personnel and equipment, and the presence of aircraft and ships linked to earlier Burevestnik trials.
Two specialized data-collection aircraft have been stationed at Rogachevo airfield since mid-July, mirroring deployments during past tests. A Western security source confirmed that preparations for a launch are likely underway, and analysts believe the test could happen this week.
Strategic Context and Capabilities
President Putin has called Burevestnik “invulnerable” to all existing and future missile defense systems, citing its near-unlimited range due to a nuclear propulsion system — a first in modern weapons design. Unlike conventional cruise missiles powered by chemical fuel, Burevestnik uses a small nuclear reactor for propulsion, enabling prolonged flight and unconventional approach routes.
Chinese military analyst Song Zhongping told state media that successful deployment could alter the global nuclear balance. He noted that while nuclear warheads are commonly used on ballistic and conventionally powered cruise missiles, Russia is pioneering nuclear-propelled weapons.
Technical and Strategic Challenges
Developing a nuclear propulsion system for a missile poses major technical hurdles, particularly in fuel handling and miniaturization. Song suggested that renewed testing may aim to resolve these engineering challenges.
The missile reportedly completed successful state trials in October 2023, with Russian military sources claiming it is low-flying, radar-evading, and immune to all known air and missile defenses.
Official Silence
The Kremlin has issued no official statement on the current test preparations, and Russian state media have not confirmed the Reuters report. Western analysts view the timing — just before a high-profile U.S.–Russia summit — as potentially deliberate, intended to strengthen Moscow’s negotiating position.
