The Controversial Efficiency of Putin's Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile: Expert Analysis
Russian President Vladimir Putin's experimental nuclear-powered cruise missile, the Burvestnik, may not offer significant advantages over Russia's existing strategic systems, according to a nuclear weapons expert. While the missile's utility is debatable, it could serve as a political tool or bargaining chip for Putin. The Burvestnik is one of Russia's six strategic "super weapons" and is still in the experimental stage. Its development may be a response to the US withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty in 2002. However, the missile's launch facilities could be vulnerable targets in a conflict, potentially impacting its effectiveness.