Two U.S. researchers have claimed to have pinpointed a new potential deployment site for Russia’s nuclear-armed cruise missile, the Burevestnik, according to a report by Reuters.
Decker Eveleth, an analyst with the CNA research and analysis organization, and Jeffery Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, identified a construction site near a nuclear warhead storage facility in Vologda, Russia, as a possible new location for the missile.
The researchers used satellite imagery to examine the site, which is known as both Vologda-20 and Chebsara. Their analysis suggests that the construction project at this site may be related to the Burevestnik.
“The imagery suggests something very unique, very different. And obviously, we know that Russia is developing this nuclear-powered missile,” Lewis said.
The Burevestnik, referred to as Skyfall by NATO, was first publicly showcased by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2018. Putin touted the missile’s “invincible” capabilities, claiming it has almost unlimited range and can evade American missile defenses.
However, the missile has faced significant challenges, including a poor test record and skepticism from Western experts regarding its strategic value.
One notable incident involving the Burevestnik occurred in August 2019, when the missile reportedly exploded during efforts to recover it from the sea following a crash during secret rocket engine tests. The explosion resulted in the deaths of five scientists. This incident has added to the missile’s controversial reputation.
Hans Kristensen of the Federation of American Scientists has reviewed the satellite imagery and noted that it appears to show features such as launch pads that could potentially be related to the Burevestnik. However, Kristensen has indicated that he cannot make a definitive assessment based on the available information.
The Russian Defense Ministry and the Russian Embassy in Washington did not respond to Reuters’ requests for comments on the researchers’ findings or the strategic value of the Burevestnik. A Kremlin spokesman directed inquiries to the Defense Ministry but did not provide further details.
U.S. government agencies, including the State Department, the CIA, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the Air Force National Air and Space Intelligence Center, also declined to comment on the matter. NATO refrained from commenting on how the alliance might respond to the missile’s potential deployment.
The identification of this new potential site highlights ongoing concerns about Russia’s advancements in nuclear missile technology and its implications for global security. As the situation develops, further analysis and responses from international stakeholders will be closely watched.