Bulava launch in September

The next test launch of the Bulava-missile will take place 5-7 September, a source involved in the project told Russian media.

As previously reported, this year’s first test launch of the ill-fated missile was planned to take place in the period August 9-12, but was then for unknown reasons postponed.

Now the launch is due to take place in the period 5-7 September, Interfax reports

Out of 13 test launches so far, 7 have failed. The test program was interrupted in December 2009, after yet another failed launch of the missile. Last year’s failed test launch caused a special light phenomenon over major parts of the northern hemisphere.

The Bulava missile is to become the new key weapon of the Russian Navy. It will be placed in all strategic fourth generation subs of the Borey class.

It has earlier been said that at one missile would this summer be launched from Russia’s newest 4th generation strategic nuclear powered submarine Yury Dolgoruky. However, this sub is still undergoing sea trials in Arctic waters and recently returned to Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk outside Arkhangelsk after another round of sea trials.

Russia has only one submarine capable of launching Bulava missiles, the modified Typhoon class “Dmitry Donskoy”.

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