Russia May Test Nuclear-Powered Missile Ahead of Putin-Trump Meeting in Alaska

Creator: Mikhail Metzel | Credit: via REUTERS

Russia appears poised to test its nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed cruise missile—the 9M730 Burevestnik (NATO: SSC-X-9 Skyfall)—before President Vladimir Putin meets U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska on August 15.

Satellite imagery from Planet Labs analyzed by researchers Jeffrey Lewis and Decker Eveleth shows significant activity at the Pankovo test site on Novaya Zemlya, consistent with preparations for a Burevestnik launch. A Western security source confirmed test plans, which could politically overshadow discussions between the two leaders on Ukraine, security, and economic cooperation.

Despite Putin's claims that the Burevestnik is "invincible" due to its long range and unpredictable flight path, the missile faces reliability issues and safety concerns—especially following a 2019 accident. Recent vessel tracking and radar aircraft presence support the likelihood of a test between August 9–22, amid increased Russian missile test activity in the Barents Sea.

U.S. and Russian officials declined to comment on the reported preparations.