Media: Russia is preparing to launch "Doomsday weapon"

Russia is likely preparing to test the newest nuclear-powered cruise missile "Burevestnik" (NATO classification - SSC-X-9 Skyfall).

As reported by TUT.AZ with reference to Reuters, this was announced by two American researchers and a source in Western security services. Preparations for the launch are being conducted ahead of planned talks on Friday between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump on the Ukrainian issue.

This conclusion was reached by experts Jeffrey Lewis from the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and Decker Evelet from the CNA think tank after careful analysis of satellite images from Planet Labs taken over the Pankovo test site on the Novaya Zemlya archipelago.

"We are observing intense activity at the test site - large-scale delivery of supplies and movements in the immediate missile launch zone," Lewis emphasized.

Satellite images show an increase in personnel and equipment, as well as the presence of aircraft and ships previously involved in "Burevestnik" tests. Two specialized aircraft equipped with data collection equipment for missile tests have been stationed at Rogachevo airfield since mid-July. A source in Western security services confirmed the possibility of conducting a test as early as this week.

Vladimir Putin has previously characterized the "Burevestnik" as "invulnerable" to existing and prospective missile defense systems, possessing virtually unlimited flight range.

There have been no official confirmations of test preparations, and the Russian side has not yet commented on Reuters' reports.