NATO Raises Alarm Over Russia’s Advanced Nuclear-Capable Missile

Concerns are escalating within NATO regarding the operational readiness of Russia’s new cruise missile, the Burevestnik, known to NATO as the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. This missile reportedly has a range of up to 5,500 kilometres and can be equipped with various types of warheads, including nuclear options. The advanced capabilities of the Burevestnik, described by Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “super weapon,” are raising alarms about its potential impact on European security.

The Burevestnik is designed to remain airborne for extended periods, evade current missile defense systems, and present a significant threat to NATO nations. A classified NATO document, as reported by Die Welt, highlights the missile’s advanced features and assesses the risks associated with its deployment. Putin publicly announced successful tests of the Burevestnik three weeks prior, adding urgency to the concerns expressed by Western intelligence agencies.

Capabilities and Threat Assessment

The NATO report emphasizes that a fully operational Burevestnik would complicate the security landscape in Europe. The missile can achieve speeds exceeding 900 kilometres per hour and is capable of long-range, highly manoeuvrable flight paths, which could circumvent NATO air defenses. The document states that existing challenges would be exacerbated by the missile’s extreme range and agility.

A key feature of the Burevestnik is its nuclear propulsion system, which theoretically provides it with an almost unlimited operational range. Unlike traditional cruise missiles that rely on conventional fuels, the nuclear reactor allows the Burevestnik to remain airborne for extended durations, change its flight path, and strike targets from various angles. This capability also enables it to operate in regions where surveillance is limited, such as over southern and polar areas.

Despite its advanced technology, some experts caution that the Burevestnik may not provide Russia with a decisive advantage. For instance, it does not achieve hypersonic speeds, which could make it more vulnerable to interception the longer it remains in the air. Moreover, NATO is closely monitoring another Russian missile, the SS-X-28 Oreshnik, which has a similar range and potential for nuclear armament.

Regional Implications and Future Developments

In a related development, Belarus is preparing to deploy the Russian Oreshnik hypersonic medium-range missile by December 2024. According to Natalia Eismont, spokesperson for Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, this deployment is a direct response to escalating tensions with the West. The NATO document further indicates that the Oreshnik’s mobility enhances its survivability and complicates NATO’s defense strategies.

The report also addresses the challenges posed by Russia’s Poseidon submarines, which are expected to be operational by 2030. These submarines are believed to have an extensive range and are designed to target naval bases and coastal cities in regions including the Pacific and the United States’ East Coast.

NATO’s analysis highlights significant gaps in its medium- and long-range capabilities, particularly concerning nuclear armaments. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, the alliance faces mounting challenges in countering advanced Russian military technologies.

Experts have expressed mixed opinions about the Burevestnik. Some, like Fabian Hoffmann of the Oslo Nuclear Project, characterized it as “useless and superfluous,” questioning its strategic value despite its technological advancements. Concerns also persist regarding the safety of the missile’s nuclear reactor. Past incidents, such as a 2019 test that resulted in fatalities among Russian scientists, have raised questions about the reliability of the missile.

According to William Alberque, a Senior Associate at the Pacific Forum, the greatest risk associated with the Burevestnik lies in the event of a launch failure. If the missile were to be compromised, it could release radioactive material over a wide area, leading to catastrophic consequences. While some experts urge caution in labeling the missile a “flying Chernobyl,” the potential repercussions of a malfunction remain a pressing concern.

As NATO navigates these challenges, the implications of Russia’s expanding arsenal will likely shape military strategies and international relations in the coming years. The alliance must address these emerging threats while balancing deterrence and diplomatic efforts to maintain stability in the region.