Putin Reveals NATO Spy Ship Shadowed Burevestnik Nuclear Missile Test

MOSCOW — President Vladimir Putin disclosed that a NATO reconnaissance vessel was operating in the Barents Sea during the pivotal October 21 test of Russia’s unlimited-range Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile.

Speaking to top military commanders, Putin stated the foreign ship closely monitored the missile’s flight trajectory but did not disrupt the exercise. The weapon traveled 14 000 kilometers over 15 hours, successfully executing all maneuvers under nuclear propulsion.

Neither NATO nor the Pentagon has commented on the vessel’s presence.

The trial marked the final phase before Burevestnik enters active combat duty.