This year’s first test launch was planned to take place in the period August 9-12, but has been postponed at least two weeks, Gazeta.ru reports, citing a navy source. No reason for the postponement was given.
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. This time, people in large areas of Northern Norway became witnesses to the missile exploding in the sky.
After the last failure a state investigation commission was set up to investigate the numerous failed Bulava launches. In June it presented its conclusions, recommending that the tests should be resumed.
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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. 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, Sevmash’ web site reads. “Yury Dolgoruky” is planned to head for sea again in a few days.
Russia has only one submarine capable of launching Bulava missiles, the modified Typhoon class “Dmitry Donskoy”.
Read all BarentsObserver articles on the Bulava missile
