Two American researchers have found the launch site in Russia for the 9M370 Burevestnik, a new cruise missile with nuclear propulsion and warhead. Russian President Vladimir Putin calls this weapon "invincible." NATO names it the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. Putin says this missile can fly almost and dodge U.S. missile shields. But some experts in the West doubt these claims. They also question if the missile makes sense for Russia. These critics argue it doesn't give Russia new abilities. They also worry it could cause radiation accidents.

Using satellite images from July 26, captured by Planet Labs, researchers identified a construction project adjacent to a nuclear warhead storage site known as Vologda-20 or Chebsara, located 475 km (295 miles) north of Moscow. This site is believed to be the potential deployment location for the Burevestnik missile. Decker Eveleth, an analyst with the CNA research and analysis organization, identified nine horizontal launch pads under construction at the site. These pads, grouped in threes and protected by high berms, are likely intended to shield against attacks or accidental detonations. The launch pads are connected to what appear to be service buildings and the existing complex of five nuclear warhead storage bunkers.

Eveleth and Jeffery Lewis of the Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey, who reviewed the imagery, suggest that Russia is moving forward with the deployment of the Burevestnik after a series of problematic tests in recent years. Hans Kristensen of the Federation of American Scientists, who also analyzed the images, noted the presence of launch pads but could not definitively confirm their relation to the Burevestnik.

Deploying the Burevestnik at Vologda would allow Russia to stockpile these nuclear-armed missiles nearby, enabling rapid launch if necessary. This differs from Russia's usual practice of storing nuclear payloads far from launch sites, except for its Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) force.

Despite the missile's potential deployment, experts remain skeptical about its effectiveness. The Burevestnik has a poor test record, with only two partial successes out of at least 13 tests since 2016, according to the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI). The missile's nuclear-powered engine also raises concerns about radiation risks during flight and potential accidents that could contaminate surrounding areas.

Experts, including Pavel Podvig, a Geneva-based authority on Russia's nuclear forces, argue that the Burevestnik does not offer any new strategic advantages for Russia. Its deployment could be seen more as a political move by Putin, intended to bolster his image and signal to the U.S. that Russia cannot be ignored on issues like missile defense.

The Burevestnik's technical details remain largely unknown, but it is believed to have a range of about 23,000 km (15,000 miles) and a subsonic speed, making it detectable and vulnerable during flight. The missile's deployment is not restricted by the New START treaty, the last U.S.-Russian agreement on limiting strategic nuclear weapons, which expires in February 2026. However, no talks have been initiated by the U.S. to bring the Burevestnik under these limits, especially with the ongoing tensions over the war in Ukraine. Some experts believe the Burevestnik might be used by Russia as a bargaining tool in future negotiations.