Russians Conduct Tests of the “Nuclear” 9M730 Burevestnik Missile

Russia has conducted tests of its newest long-range cruise missile, the 9M730 Burevestnik, which is equipped with a nuclear propulsion system.

Several Russian media outlets, including Meduza, reported on this.

According to Russian sources, the test took place on October 21. The missile reportedly flew for about 15 hours, covering approximately 14,000 kilometers.

Russia has not disclosed any further details. The very fact that the test took place remains uncertain and has not been confirmed by NATO countries or independent sources.

During such tests, the missile is expected to leave a radioactive trace, as was recorded during previous trials.

It should be recalled that reports about preparations for the missile launch appeared as early as the beginning of August.

At the time, it was reported that the launch was planned along the western coast of Novaya Zemlya.

U.S. intelligence recorded the first test launches of the 9M730 Burevestnik missile in June 2016.

From then until February 26, 2018, up to twelve launches were carried out. American intelligence analysts consider only one of them – the one in November 2017 – to have been successful.

Details about the missile remain classified.

It is reported, however, that it is fitted with a direct-flow (ramjet) jet engine in which air is heated by the energy of a compact nuclear reactor to produce thrust.

According to its Russian developers, the missile’s main advantage is intended to be its extraordinary range, allowing it to bypass air-defense zones even without using a nuclear warhead.