Russia Confirms Effective Test of Atomic-Propelled Burevestnik Missile
Russia has tested the nuclear-powered Burevestnik long-range missile, according to the nation's leading commander.
"We have launched a prolonged flight of a reactor-driven projectile and it covered a 14,000km distance, which is not the maximum," Top Army Official the commander reported to President Vladimir Putin in a public appearance.
The low-flying experimental weapon, initially revealed in recent years, has been hailed as having a potentially unlimited range and the capability to avoid defensive systems.
International analysts have previously cast doubt over the projectile's tactical importance and the nation's statements of having accomplished its evaluation.
The national leader stated that a "last accomplished trial" of the missile had been carried out in 2023, but the assertion was not externally confirmed. Of a minimum of thirteen documented trials, merely a pair had partial success since 2016, as per an non-proliferation organization.
The military leader stated the missile was in the sky for a significant duration during the trial on the specified date.
He noted the weapon's altitude and course adjustments were tested and were confirmed as up to specification, as per a national news agency.
"Consequently, it displayed superior performance to bypass missile and air defence systems," the outlet reported the general as saying.
The projectile's application has been the topic of intense debate in military and defence circles since it was originally disclosed in the past decade.
A previous study by a foreign defence research body stated: "A reactor-driven long-range projectile would provide the nation a unique weapon with global strike capacity."
Yet, as an international strategic institute observed the corresponding time, the nation faces significant challenges in achieving operational status.
"Its integration into the state's inventory likely depends not only on overcoming the significant development hurdle of ensuring the dependable functioning of the atomic power system," analysts noted.
"There occurred several flawed evaluations, and a mishap causing multiple fatalities."
A armed forces periodical referenced in the analysis asserts the missile has a operational radius of between 6,200 and 12,400 miles, permitting "the weapon to be based anywhere in Russia and still be capable to strike objectives in the American territory."
The same journal also explains the weapon can operate as low as 164 to 328 feet above ground, causing complexity for air defences to engage.
The projectile, referred to as an operational name by a foreign security organization, is believed to be powered by a atomic power source, which is intended to activate after solid fuel rocket boosters have sent it into the atmosphere.
An examination by a news agency recently located a site 475km above the capital as the possible firing point of the weapon.
Employing space-based photos from August 2024, an expert reported to the outlet he had observed nine horizontal launch pads under construction at the location.
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