Experts Identify Potential Russian Deployment Site for Controversial Nuclear Missile

Two U.S. researchers have identified a probable deployment site in Russia for the 9M370 Burevestnik, a nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile. Using satellite imagery, they pinpointed a site near a nuclear warhead storage facility as the potential location. However, Western experts dispute the missile's strategic value and safety.

Two U.S. researchers say they have identified the probable deployment site in Russia of the 9M370 Burevestnik, a new nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile touted by President Vladimir Putin as 'invincible.'

Planet Labs' satellite images from July 26 revealed a construction project near a nuclear warhead storage facility, indicating this as the missile's potential deployment site. Decker Eveleth of the CNA and Jeffery Lewis of the Middlebury Institute corroborated these findings. Eveleth identified nine horizontal launch pads in three groups within high berms for protection.

The U.S. State Department, the CIA, and the Russian defense ministry did not comment on this assessment. Western experts argue the missile, given its poor test record and potential radiation risks, may not offer new capabilities to Moscow. Some experts labeled it a 'political weapon' by Putin to assert his strength and counter U.S. missile defenses.

(With inputs from agencies.)