In News:

According to recent reports, Russia is preparing to conduct fresh trials of the 9M730 Burevestnik – a nuclear-powered cruise missile that has often been described as a “unique” and formidable addition to Moscow’s strategic arsenal.

About the Burevestnik

• The term Burevestnik translates to “storm petrel” in Russian.
• It is a ground-launched, nuclear-powered cruise missile, also capable of carrying a nuclear warhead.
• The system was first unveiled by the Russian President in 2018, as part of six advanced strategic weapons.
• NATO has designated it as SSC-X-9 “Skyfall.”
• In theory, its nuclear propulsion allows it to circle the globe multiple times before striking a target, making it an unprecedented strategic weapon.

Key Features

• Nuclear Propulsion: The missile uses a compact nuclear reactor that heats the surrounding air for thrust.
• Extended Range: Unlike traditional engines restricted by fuel capacity, the nuclear design enables a potential range of up to 22,000 km (14,000 miles).
• Low-Altitude Flight: The system is engineered to fly close to the ground, significantly reducing its detectability by conventional air-defence radars.
• Strategic Significance: Its combination of long endurance and stealthy trajectory poses challenges to existing missile defence systems.