Russia has conducted a successful trial of its nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile, a weapon capable of carrying nuclear warheads that Moscow claims can penetrate any defense system. President Vladimir Putin announced on Sunday that the missile testing has been completed, and Russia will proceed with deploying this advanced weapon.
The recent test, combined with a nuclear exercise conducted last week, serves as a clear statement from Russia, as per Putin’s remarks, that the country will not yield to Western pressure regarding the conflict in Ukraine. This comes at a time when US President Donald Trump has taken a more assertive stance against Russia, pushing for a ceasefire in Ukraine.
According to Russia’s top general, Valery Gerasimov, the missile traveled a distance of 14,000 km (8,700 miles) and remained airborne for approximately 15 hours during the trial on October 21. Known as the 9M730 Burevestnik (Storm Petrel) within Russia and designated as SSC-X-9 Skyfall by NATO, the missile is touted by Russia as impervious to existing and future missile defense systems, with an almost unlimited range and unpredictable flight trajectory.
Putin emphasized the significance of this weapon, stating that it is a unique asset not possessed by any other nation globally. The development of the Burevestnik missile, first announced in 2018, is viewed by Putin as a response to US actions following its withdrawal from the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and NATO’s expansion.
Acknowledging initial skepticism from Russian experts about the feasibility of the weapon, Putin highlighted the successful completion of crucial testing. He stressed the necessity of classifying the weapon and establishing the infrastructure for its deployment.
The timing of the missile test, coupled with Putin’s announcement while dressed in military attire at a meeting with Ukraine war commanders, sends a strong message to the West and particularly to Trump. The White House has yet to comment on the missile test.
In light of Trump’s recent criticisms of Russia’s military capabilities, Putin’s message aims to assert Russia’s global military competitiveness, especially in the realm of nuclear armaments. Additionally, it signals that Moscow retains the ability to retaliate against provocations, following reports of US support for Ukraine against Russian targets.
Russian spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reiterated Moscow’s stance on potential responses to aggression, emphasizing the Burevestnik missile’s capabilities in overcoming anti-missile defenses. Gerasimov highlighted that the missile operated on nuclear power and demonstrated an unparalleled range during the recent trial.
Putin also oversaw a comprehensive test of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces, including land, sea, and air-based systems, underscoring the country’s readiness and command structure. Gerasimov reported on the completion of training launches involving intercontinental ballistic missiles and air-launched cruise missiles.
Furthermore, Gerasimov provided updates on Russian military actions in Ukraine, stating that Ukrainian forces had been surrounded in various regions while Russian troops advanced in others. Putin emphasized Russia’s nuclear deterrent capabilities, asserting their superiority over other nuclear powers.