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Russia's 9M730 Burevestnik: Development and Deployment
Russia's development of the 9M730 Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile, nicknamed the "Flying Chernobyl," shows mixed results with only two partially successful tests out of thirteen since 2016, despite claims of its imminent deployment.
- What incidents or events have affected the Burevestnik's development timeline and overall success?
- A 2019 accident at a northern Russian weapons facility, resulting in five deaths, was possibly linked to the Burevestnik's development, though not officially confirmed. This incident, along with the generally low success rate of tests (two partial successes out of thirteen), has significantly impacted the project's timeline and overall progress.
- What is the current status of Russia's "Flying Chernobyl" (9M730 Burevestnik) nuclear-powered cruise missile development?
- Despite Russian President Vladimir Putin's claims of its invincibility and potential for deployment as early as 2025, the 9M730 Burevestnik missile has seen only two partially successful tests out of thirteen attempts since 2016. Recent activity at Russia's New Zembla nuclear testing site, including fighter jet deployments and a US reconnaissance flight, suggests ongoing development.
- What are the potential implications of a successful deployment of the Burevestnik missile, considering its design and past incidents?
- A successful deployment would give Russia a nearly unstoppable nuclear-capable cruise missile, significantly altering the global strategic balance. However, the past accidents highlight the inherent risks in developing and deploying such advanced, potentially unstable technology. The weapon's near-limitless range would significantly extend the potential threat to a greater geographic area.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a somewhat sensationalized view of the 9M730 Burevestnik missile, emphasizing its potential as a game-changing weapon with almost unlimited range and the nickname "Flying Chernobyl." While it cites Russian statements praising the missile, it also presents counterpoints such as the limited success rate of its tests and a deadly accident. However, the dramatic nickname and descriptions of the missile's capabilities might create a stronger emotional response than a purely neutral presentation.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language such as "invincible" and "without equivalent in the world" when describing the missile, reflecting the Russian government's perspective. The nickname "Flying Chernobyl" is inherently negative and evokes strong imagery of disaster. Neutral alternatives might include simply stating the missile's capabilities and its official name without using loaded terms.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Russian statements and actions. It mentions US reconnaissance efforts and analyses from the Nuclear Threat Initiative, but could benefit from including additional perspectives from other countries or independent experts on the missile's capabilities and potential threat. The article also does not elaborate on the nature of the ogives the missile will carry.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't explicitly present a false dichotomy, but the emphasis on the missile's supposed invincibility implies a false choice between possessing this weapon and lacking effective defense against it. The complexity of nuclear deterrence and the potential for escalation is not adequately explored.
Sustainable Development Goals
The development and potential deployment of the Burevestnik missile, a nuclear-powered cruise missile, significantly threatens global peace and security. Its near-unlimited range and difficulty to intercept increase the risk of nuclear escalation and conflict. The secrecy surrounding its development and testing, along with accidents like the one in 2019, further undermine international cooperation and trust. The statement by Putin that possessing this technology guarantees world peace is contradictory to the increased risk it poses.