What's happened
Russia announced a successful test of the Burevestnik missile, which traveled 14,000 km and stayed airborne for 15 hours. Putin claims it is invulnerable to missile defenses, with experts questioning its strategic value due to past failures and radiation risks. The test follows recent nuclear drills.
What's behind the headline?
The recent test underscores Russia’s focus on advancing its nuclear capabilities, particularly the Burevestnik missile, which Moscow claims is invincible due to nuclear propulsion and its ability to loiter for extended periods. While Putin asserts its superiority, Western experts remain skeptical, citing its poor test record and vulnerability due to subsonic speed. The missile’s low altitude and nuclear propulsion could enable global reach, but its detectability and past failures cast doubt on its operational viability. The test also signals Russia’s intent to demonstrate military strength amid ongoing tensions over Ukraine and broader geopolitical conflicts. The strategic value of the missile remains uncertain, but its development is likely to influence future arms control negotiations and regional security dynamics.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that Putin publicly announced the successful test, emphasizing the missile's invulnerability and strategic significance, with General Gerasimov confirming the missile traveled 14,000 km in 15 hours. The Times of Israel and South China Morning Post highlight the missile’s nuclear propulsion and potential to stay aloft for days, with Western experts questioning its detectability and past failures. AP News and The Moscow Times detail the drills involving Russia’s nuclear triad, illustrating ongoing readiness exercises. The NY Post and other sources note the missile’s role in Russia’s broader nuclear posture, with some analysts warning about the missile’s questionable strategic value given its history of failures and radiation risks. Overall, the coverage reflects Russia’s persistent pursuit of advanced nuclear weapons, despite skepticism from Western analysts about their operational effectiveness.
How we got here
The Burevestnik missile, also known as Storm Petrel, has been under development since 2018. It is a nuclear-powered cruise missile designed to evade missile defenses with its long range and unpredictable flight path. Past tests have faced failures, including a deadly explosion in 2019, but Russia continues to emphasize its strategic importance amid heightened tensions with the West.
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Common question
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