Overview

• Satellite images from Planet Labs reveal increased personnel, containers and ships at the Pankovo test site since late July.
• Two instrumented aircraft fitted with radar domes have been observed at the Rogachevo military airfield since mid-July.
• Russia issued NOTAMs and maritime warnings indicating a possible launch window between August 9 and 22 near Novaya Zemlya.
• Analysts caution that the Burevestnik’s nuclear propulsion has faced technical setbacks and carries potential radiation hazards.
• Observers say a trial at this moment could bolster Russia’s leverage ahead of U.S.–Russia talks in Alaska.