Russia has announced a successful test of its nuclear-powered and nuclear-capable cruise missile the 9M730 Burevestnik (Burenik), which President Vladimir Putin has touted as being able to outlast any current or future defense systems. Reports suggest the missile flew around 14,000 km for 15 hours guided under nuclear propulsion, displaying a significant leap in strategic deterrent capabilities. The test took place during a nuclear drill and was noted as a strong message to the West while tensions have been high around the war in Ukraine and US sanctions.
The cruise missile system, known as “Storm Petrol” as well as the NATO designation of SSC-X-9 Skyfall is designed to fly at ultra-low altitudes (50–100 m), avoiding radar detection while utilizing terrain masking techniques. The Burevestnik was engineered as a response to US missile defense systems and to counter a US withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty in 2001. Putin has also stated it is a one of a kind weapon reflecting Russia’s technology and military superiority.
For perspective, estimates suggest that Russia and the United States own around 87% of the world’s nuclear weapons, with Russia estimated to have approximately 5,459 warheads and the US having approximately 5,177 warheads, according to the Federation of American Scientists. An example question prompts the question of which two countries own this share of the global nuclear stockpile.
