At the launch pad — “Burevestnik”: satellites recorded the Kremlin’s preparations for a nuclear launch

Preparations are being recorded at a training ground near Novaya Zemlya for a new test of the Russian 9M730 “Burevestnik” cruise missile, capable of carrying a nuclear warhead. It could take place in the coming days, on the eve of Putin’s meeting with Trump in Alaska.

This is warned by American analysts who analyzed satellite images of the region, Reuters reports.

These are experts Jeffrey Lewis from the California Institute of International Studies and Decker Evelet from the analytical organization CNA. They drew attention to the sudden activation in the area of the test site: an increase in equipment, personnel, ships and aircraft that were previously involved in the tests of the “Petrel”.

“We are seeing significant supplies, movement of people and equipment in the area where the missile is usually launched,” Lewis explained. He said Moscow could use the test as a show of force ahead of a summit with the United States.

Western intelligence sources have also reported on the preparations for the launch. Russia has already warned mariners to stay away from a certain area in the Barents Sea from August 9 to 12. During the same period, and until August 22, airspace restrictions are in place.

Despite the Kremlin’s loud claims, the Burevestnik missile has a highly controversial reputation. It is billed as a nuclear-powered weapon with “unlimited range,” but of the 13 known tests, only two have been partially successful. In addition, experts cannot confirm that the missile is capable of evading missile defense systems or that its flight is free of radiation emissions.

Before the summit with Donald Trump, Putin will probably try to play on force pressure. At the same time, analysts suggest that he could suspend active preparations due to the appearance of American spy satellites so as not to harm possible agreements on the war in Ukraine and the resumption of arms control dialogue.

As a reminder, Belarusian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin said that during joint military exercises with Russia, it is planned to practice scenarios for the use of nuclear weapons, as well as the latest Oreshnik system . According to him, this is an important element of strategic deterrence in the face of growing tension on the country’s western and northern borders.

As reported, Russia is experiencing serious disruptions in the implementation of a state defense order for the production of Kh-59M2/M2A aircraft missiles . The reason was sanctions restrictions and a shortage of necessary components.

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