Russia continues preparation of R-30 Bulava nuclear missile: Satellite image emerges
Photo: 3F30-9 transport and loading unit for servicing the R-30 Bulava missile (wikipedia.org)
A satellite image has emerged online, showing the process of loading and preparing the R-30 Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile. This missile is part of Russia's nuclear triad and is deployed on Project 955 Borey nuclear underwater cruiser, according to Defense Express.
The image first appeared on Russian websites. Russians claim it shows the work of the 12th Main Directorate of the Russian Ministry of Defense, responsible for servicing nuclear weapons.
Defense Express notes that this is the first public satellite image revealing preparations for Russian missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
The exact time and location depicted in the image remain unclear. The transport-launch container for the R-30 Bulava missile (in gray) is likely located in the lower-left corner of the image, with several vehicles of various types visible as well.
R-30 Bulava preparation process (satellite image from open sources)
The agency also notes that the Russian forces are not even trying to camouflage their activities. They are openly conducting preparations for the sea-based intercontinental ballistic missile, which is likely to be loaded onto one of the nuclear underwater cruisers of the Project 955 class.
"This marks a certain 'mutual transparency': Western countries can continuously monitor, via satellites, processes related to Russia's nuclear arsenal, while the Russians openly conduct such operations, likely for psychological impact," writes Defense Express.
It is also possible that similar activities at Russia's strategic aviation airfields are being closely monitored by Western satellites.
In May 2024, it was revealed that Russia had adopted the Bulava ballistic missile into service. However, due to technical issues, many of the missile launches have ended in failure or only partial success.
In November 2023, the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine reported that Russia had conducted unsuccessful tests of the Yars and Bulava missiles, both of which are capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
