Russia’s development of the Burevestnik strategic cruise missile could significantly alter the balance of global nuclear deterrence, according to Chinese military analyst Song Zhongping in comments to the Global Times.

The expert addressed recent reports in Western media suggesting that new tests of the missile may be underway. He described the Burevestnik as a «unique weapon," noting that unlike conventional cruise missiles powered by chemical fuel, it relies on nuclear propulsion — a feature that grants it an almost unlimited flight range.

Song explained that nuclear warheads are typically mounted on either ballistic missiles or chemically powered cruise missiles. In this case, Russia has become the first nation to pursue a cruise missile powered by a nuclear energy source.

He stressed that the successful completion of this project could shift the global strategic nuclear landscape to some extent. The analyst also pointed out that working with nuclear fuel poses a serious engineering challenge, and any upcoming trials would likely aim to address this complex technical hurdle.