Russia is preparing to test its nuclear-capable and nuclear-powered cruise missile, the 9M730 Burevestnik, also known by NATO as SSC-X-9 Skyfall, Ukrainian military intelligence said on Friday.
Andriy Yusov, a spokesperson for Ukraine’s military intelligence, said Moscow views the test as a way to strengthen its bargaining position with the West. His statement came just before US President Donald Trump’s scheduled meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska to discuss ending the war in Ukraine.
Yusov said the goal of the tests is to confirm the scientific and technical solutions behind the missile. “If successful, Russia will use the results to defend its interests in negotiations with the West,” he said.
Reuters earlier reported that Moscow was preparing for a test at the Pankovo site on Novaya Zemlya, based on satellite imagery from Planet Labs. The images showed heavy activity at the site, including ships, aircraft, and equipment similar to what was seen during earlier tests.
Russia’s defense ministry, the Pentagon, and the CIA declined to comment on the report. The White House also avoided direct comment on the test, only saying President Trump wants peace in Ukraine.
Putin has described the Burevestnik as an “invincible” weapon, claiming it has an almost unlimited range and unpredictable flight path. However, many experts question whether it can truly evade missile defenses. Critics also warn of the environmental danger, as the missile is powered by a nuclear reactor and could release radiation.
The missile has a troubled history, with the Nuclear Threat Initiative reporting only two partial successes out of 13 known tests.
Moscow has repeatedly threatened to use nuclear weapons during its war in Ukraine, raising global concerns that a new test could heighten tensions further.
