According to Reuters, Russian military forces are likely preparing to test the Burevestnik intercontinental cruise missile with a nuclear propulsion system. The information is confirmed by a Western security source and two analysts.
Experts Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Eveleth from the CNA think tank analyzed satellite images of a testing site on Novaya Zemlya. Their observations indicate that since late July, cargo containers, equipment, and specialists have been arriving at the facility.
Five ships previously involved in the Burevestnik program have been detected near the testing zone. A sixth vessel, which also participated in past tests, is reportedly set to arrive on August 19.
"The site shows significant activity: large-scale deliveries of materials to support operations and movements near the launch area," Lewis explained.
An anonymous Reuters source within Western intelligence confirmed that Russian military forces are preparing for tests.
Researchers took note of the satellite images after Russia announced a temporary ban on ships and aircraft near Novaya Zemlya from August 9 to 12.
The Norwegian outlet *Barents Observer* additionally reported the closure of airspace within a 500-kilometer zone off the archipelago’s western coast from August 7 to 12.
Experts cited by Reuters believe the test preparations began long before the announcement of a meeting between the U.S. and Russian presidents in Alaska.
Of the 13 recorded Burevestnik launches, only two have been successful. U.S. specialists have dubbed the missile a "flying Chernobyl" due to the risk of radioactive contamination during engine operation.