BLUF
Russia’s Burevestnik Skyfall nuclear-powered cruise missile may enable near-unlimited range and unpredictable flight paths, but recent analysis suggests its open-cycle reactor design could release radioactive particles during flight, raising major environmental and strategic concerns.Learning Outcomes
- Discuss nuclear-powered cruise missile propulsion over conventional range constraints.
- Examine open-cycle nuclear designs and associated radiological risks.
- Assess strategic motivations for ultra-long-range, non-ballistic strike systems.
