A satellite image has recently appeared in open sources, capturing the process of equipping and preparing the russian R-30 Bulava ICBM, a critical component of russia’s nuclear triad deployed on Project 955 Borei-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.
Interestingly, specialized russian sources were the first to highlight this image. They assert that it depicts operations by the 12th Chief Directorate of the Ministry of Defense, the branch responsible for handling nuclear weaponry.
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This development is particularly striking, as until now, satellite images showing preparatory activities for russian missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads had not surfaced in the public domain. This deserves attention.
The exact time and location of this image are unknown. It is likely, however, that the transport-launch container with the R-30 Bulava intercontinental ballistic missile (gray) is visible in the lower left corner of the image, accompanied by several support vehicles with varied functions.
It is remarkable that the russians have made no attempt to conceal these activities, openly conducting preparations for the sea-based ICBM, which will likely be loaded onto a Project 955 submarine.
This points to a certain mutual transparency: Western countries can continuously monitor russia’s nuclear arsenal operations via satellite, while russia occasionally conducts these operations in the open, perhaps as a psychological message.
While this discussion focuses on strategic nuclear weapons, it’s plausible to assume that similar activities at russian strategic aviation airfields are also under close observation by Western satellites.
Previously, Defense Express discussed where russia produces nuclear weapons and the locations of key facilities, based on information in a report by the U.S. Department of Defense's intelligence agency.
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