Russia is reportedly preparing to test the 9M730 Burevestnik nuclear missile, known as the “Flying Chernobyl” and described by President Vladimir Putin as “invincible”.
Satellite images indicate the movement of four Russian vessels to observation positions in the eastern Barents Sea, near the Novaya Zemlya archipelago, where the test is expected to take place. Authorities have also issued an air warning covering 40,000 km² in the region.
The weapon, presented by Putin in 2018, is said to be powered and armed by nuclear energy, with virtually unlimited range and the ability to bypass U.S. missile defense systems. However, Western experts question its effectiveness, pointing out that it does not provide significant strategic advantages and poses a high risk of accidents involving radiation release. Since 2016, the Burevestnik has undergone at least 13 known tests, with only two partial successes.
The potential resumption of tests comes at a time of rising tensions between Moscow and Washington, marked by accusations and displays of strength. The issue gained prominence ahead of the planned meeting between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, who has already criticized the war in Ukraine and was targeted by Russian media provocation after relocating nuclear submarines to “protect the people” from alleged threats.
Source: LADbible | Photo: X @onlydjole | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
“Russia has just tested a new nuclear-powered cruise missile, officially known as the Burevestnik and referred to in Western media reports as the ‘Flying Chernobyl,’ a doomsday superweapon,” the publication said. 👇 pic.twitter.com/Ls4R1kiHVG
— Djole 🇷🇸 (@onlydjole) October 14, 2023
