Putin and nuclear-powered missile propaganda

2025-10-31 07:53:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

Russian President Vladimir Putin is boasting about the new nuclear-powered Burevestnik missile – a “unique invention” with an “unlimited range.” What is really known about this weapon?

Russia recently tested a nuclear-powered missile, the Burevestnik, but experts remain skeptical about its operational readiness and safety aspects.

The test of the Burevestnik missile, which the Kremlin has presented as a major technological breakthrough, has attracted attention because of its claims of unlimited range and nuclear warhead. A video released on October 26 shows President Vladimir Putin and Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov in camouflage military uniforms discussing the test conducted from the Novaya Zemlya archipelago.

Main characteristics of the Burevestnik missile

A nuclear propulsion system instead of a conventional engine allows it to fly more than 14,000 km. It can carry conventional or nuclear warheads. It is designated by NATO as SSC-X-9 Skyfall. During the test, the missile was in the air for 15 hours, performing complex maneuvers.

Skepticism of experts

While Putin claims that the main tests have been completed, Munich-based professor Karl Massala points out that of the 14 known tests, only three were successful, while 11 failed. Nico Lange of the Munich Security Conference believes that the purpose of the tests is more political than military - to emphasize the word "nuclear".

Geopolitical context

The test was announced shortly after NATO's "Steadfast Noon" exercise and at a time when the US, under President Donald Trump, is tightening sanctions on Russia. Trump called the test "inappropriate" and called on Russia to end the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin responded that it was guided only by national interests.

Security challenges and risks

The missile flies slower than the speed of sound, which makes it detectable and potentially downed.

Although it can maneuver and bypass defense systems, it is not invincible, argue experts such as Jeffery Lewis and Pavel Podvig. The biggest risk is a potential crash accident, like the one in 2019 when an explosion in the White Sea killed five Rosatom employees and caused local radiation.

Technological aspect

A nuclear propulsion system works similarly to a jet engine, but uses a nuclear reactor to generate thrust. Similar projects existed in the US (Project Pluto) and the USSR (Tu-119), but were abandoned due to technical and safety challenges.

Despite claims of success, Burevestnik remains a controversial project - more a symbol of a political message than proof of military superiority./ DW