Burevestnik Missile (9M730): Russia’s Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile
The Burevestnik missile, officially designated 9M730 Burevestnik and known to NATO as SSC-X-9 “Skyfall,” is a Russian experimental nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile. It is one of the most secretive and controversial weapons in modern military development, designed to achieve virtually unlimited range and evade Western missile defence systems.
Development and Background
Russian President Vladimir Putin first unveiled the Burevestnik project in March 2018, describing it as part of a new generation of strategic weapons capable of overcoming any defence.
The term “Burevestnik” translates to “Storm Petrel,” a seabird that often appears before a storm — symbolizing the missile’s role as a harbinger of power.
Technical Concept
Unlike traditional cruise missiles that use liquid or solid fuel, the Burevestnik reportedly uses a miniature nuclear reactor as its propulsion system.
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This nuclear engine could, in theory, allow the missile to fly for many hours or even days.
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Its range is theoretically unlimited, enabling it to approach targets from unpredictable directions.
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It is designed to bypass radar and anti-missile shields, giving Russia a strategic advantage.
However, Western experts doubt the reliability and safety of such a system, noting that a compact, flight-worthy nuclear engine is extremely difficult to engineer.
Testing and Incidents
Russia has reportedly conducted multiple test flights since 2017.
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Early tests allegedly failed to achieve sustained flight.
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In August 2019, an explosion at a test site near Nyonoksa killed several nuclear scientists and caused a brief spike in local radiation levels — believed to be linked to Burevestnik testing.
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Despite setbacks, Russian authorities claim that by October 2025, a long-range test succeeded, with the missile flying thousands of kilometres.
These tests, though unverified, have renewed international debate about nuclear safety and arms control.
Strategic Importance
If successful, Burevestnik could transform strategic deterrence by:
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Evading missile defence systems through unpredictable flight paths.
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Maintaining persistent threat due to its long endurance.
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Strengthening Russia’s nuclear deterrent posture.
But experts argue that the missile’s complexity, cost, and environmental risks outweigh its benefits, making it more of a political signal than a practical weapon.
Safety and Environmental Concerns
The idea of a flying nuclear reactor has raised serious safety alarms:
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Accidents could spread radioactive material over land and sea.
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The 2019 Nyonoksa explosion highlighted the potential dangers.
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Environmental groups and neighbouring countries, especially Arctic states, have voiced concerns over radiation hazards.
International Reaction
Western governments and NATO have:
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Condemned the lack of transparency in Russian testing.
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Enhanced radiation monitoring networks across Europe.
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Accused Moscow of violating the spirit of arms control agreements.
Russia, however, defends the program as a necessary response to U.S. missile defence expansion.
Expert Opinions
Many analysts view Burevestnik as technologically ambitious but impractical.
While some concede the concept is theoretically possible, they note that reliable operation, safe handling, and precision guidance under nuclear propulsion remain unsolved engineering challenges.
Conclusion
The Burevestnik (9M730) symbolizes both Russia’s technological ambition and the dangers of nuclear experimentation in modern warfare.
Although its claimed “unlimited range” and “invincible capability” have captured global attention, its true operational status remains uncertain.
Until independent verification and safe testing are confirmed, Burevestnik stands more as a strategic message to the world than as an active battlefield weapon.