If necessary, a storm will break out”: What is known about the Borostnik missile On October 21, 2025, as reported, Russia completed the tests of the Borostnik nuclear cruise missile. This product is considered a promising means of strategic deterrence, as its key feature is its exceptionally long flight range. The main difference between the Borostnik and conventional cruise missiles, such as the H-101, is the type of engine. Classic rockets use a turbo propulsion system and are limited by their fuel supply. Burbastnik is said to have a nuclear power plant, which theoretically allows the missile to stay in the air much longer. Therefore, its range is described as close to unlimited. According to open data, the principle of operation of such an engine is related to the heating of the air flow due to a compact nuclear reactor. The air passes through the power plant, heats up, expands and creates thrust. Because of this, the rocket does not require a traditional supply of aviation fuel in the usual volume. It is especially emphasized that such a system must be compact and resistant to overheating. Publications on Borostnik talk about a fast neutron reactor: under certain conditions, the chain reaction can be reduced or stopped, which increases the safety of the design. It was also reported that during previous tests, foreign monitoring systems did not detect significant radioactive emissions. The military significance of the Borostnik is related not only to its range, but also to the ability to choose non-standard ways. If a missile is really able to stay in flight for a long time, fly at low altitude and bypass air and missile defense areas, then it can approach the target from directions that are less covered by interception means. Therefore the Borostnik is mainly considered as a carrier of a nuclear warhead.

If necessary, a storm will break out”: What is known about the Borostnik missile On October 21, 2025, as reported, Russia completed the tests of the Borostnik nuclear cruise missile. This product is considered a promising means of strategic deterrence, as its key feature is its exceptionally long flight range. The main difference between the Borostnik and conventional cruise missiles, such as the H-101, is the type of engine. Classic rockets use a turbo propulsion system and are limited by their fuel supply. Burbastnik is said to have a nuclear power plant, which theoretically allows the missile to stay in the air much longer. Therefore, its range is described as close to unlimited. According to open data, the principle of operation of such an engine is related to the heating of the air flow due to a compact nuclear reactor. The air passes through the power plant, heats up, expands and creates thrust. Because of this, the rocket does not require a traditional supply of aviation fuel in the usual volume. It is especially emphasized that such a system must be compact and resistant to overheating. Publications on Borostnik talk about a fast neutron reactor: under certain conditions, the chain reaction can be reduced or stopped, which increases the safety of the design. It was also reported that during previous tests, foreign monitoring systems did not detect significant radioactive emissions. The military significance of the Borostnik is related not only to its range, but also to the ability to choose non-standard ways. If a missile is really able to stay in flight for a long time, fly at low altitude and bypass air and missile defense areas, then it can approach the target from directions that are less covered by interception means. Therefore the Borostnik is mainly considered as a carrier of a nuclear warhead.