An overhyped missile that can’t deliver

In recent years, Russia has shaken the global military stage by unveiling its new missile, the Burevestnik, also dubbed the “SSC-X-9 Skyfall”. Promoted as a revolutionary boost to its nuclear capabilities, this missile allegedly can dodge missile defense systems and travel indefinitely, courtesy of its nuclear propulsion system. 

Nonetheless, experts are casting serious doubt on these bold assertions, questioning whether the 9M730 Burevestnik can genuinely live up to its supposed capabilities.

Russian President Vladimir Putin first introduced the Burevestnik missile during his annual address to the Federal Assembly in March 2018. He hailed it as a “strategic weapon,” emphasizing its ability to fly at low altitudes and maintain high speeds over long distances. This would, according to him, make it a difficult target for modern missile defense systems. Putin claimed the missile could strike locations “without being detected.” 

However, a deeper look suggests there are significant scientific and technical hurdles, raising questions about the true capabilities of the Burevestnik.

Nuclear propulsion physics

The heart of the Burevestnik’s potential lies in its ambitious nuclear propulsion system. While traditional cruise missiles run on jet engines fueled by conventional means, limiting their speed and range, the Burevestnik aims to leverage nuclear energy, potentially offering unlimited range. However, Dr. John W. Lewis, a physics professor at the University of California, Berkeley, notes, “The idea of nuclear propulsion for cruise missiles is more complex than it sounds. While achievable in theory, the practical challenges are immense.” 

A primary hurdle is ensuring the missile can safely house and operate a nuclear reactor while in flight. Dr. Igor Sutyagin, a senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, points out, “The challenges of miniaturizing a nuclear reactor for a missile are significant. It demands advanced engineering and materials science that might be beyond our current technological capabilities.”

Safety and reliability concerns

The safety implications of a nuclear-powered missile are overwhelming. If the Burevestnik were to malfunction or be shot down, the potential for a nuclear disaster could be immense. Dr. Hans Kristensen, Director of the Nuclear Information Project at the Federation of American Scientists, explains that “the risks of operating a nuclear reactor in a flying missile are monumental. Any malfunction could result in the release of radioactive material, posing a severe environmental threat and escalating tensions during conflicts.” 

Also, the reliability of such a system is a significant concern. Nuclear reactors need continuous monitoring and maintenance to function safely. In a combat scenario, maintaining operational integrity becomes dramatically more challenging. As Dr. Andrew Krepinevich, a defense analyst and president of the Center for Strategic Studies, states, “The chances of successfully deploying a nuclear propulsion system in a weaponized platform are low, especially under the stress of military engagement.”

Engineering limitations

Beyond the theoretical worries, let’s talk about the real-world engineering hurdles. The Burevestnik reportedly boasts advanced technologies to avoid detection, such as a low radar cross-section and the capability to fly at different altitudes. But here’s the catch—these features aren’t exclusive to the Burevestnik. 

According to Dr. Emily Goldman, a defense technology expert and consultant, “The engineering challenges in creating a missile that can run on a nuclear reactor while evading radar are immense. The materials used need to withstand extreme heat and pressure, yet be lightweight enough to ensure effective flight. These demands put a huge strain on the design process.”

The missile defense reality

Technological advancements in missile defense are constantly evolving, even as ambitious claims, like Burevestnik’s alleged invulnerability, hit the headlines. Dr. Eric Edelman, a former Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, notes, “The defense systems, especially those employed by NATO and the United States, are perpetually being upgraded. It’s presumptuous to think any new missile system will automatically bypass these defenses.” 

The effectiveness of missile defense systems often hinges on the specifics of an engagement. According to Dr. Krepinevich, “Missiles rely heavily on advanced targeting and guidance systems. A single disruption can make an advanced missile ineffective, and the Burevestnik is no exception.”

Geopolitical implications

The advancements and trials of the Burevestnik missile bring significant implications for worldwide security. Russia’s assertions regarding this missile have sparked anxiety among Western nations, spurring them to bolster their military budgets and advance their missile defense technologies.  

Dr. Kelsey Davenport, who oversees nonproliferation policy at the Arms Control Association, stresses that “exaggerating military capabilities can trigger an arms race. Countries will pour resources into developing countermeasures and strategies for deterrence, potentially destabilizing the global geopolitical balance.”

Conclusion

While the Burevestnik missile promises to revolutionize modern warfare, the reality is much more nuanced. The engineering hurdles, safety risks, and reliability issues that come with its nuclear propulsion system cast doubt on its practicality for operational use. Additionally, with missile defense technology advancing rapidly, the missile’s alleged invulnerability seems increasingly questionable. 

As global tensions mount, it becomes even more essential for nations to prioritize dialogue and arms control over investing in potentially overhyped military technologies that might fall short of expectations. The Burevestnik, despite its fascinating concept, is unlikely to be the game-changer Russia hopes for. As the saying goes, “All that glitters is not gold,” and in this case, the glitter may merely hide the limitations of contemporary physics and engineering.

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