Russia may have secretly deployed nuclear missiles on the seabed, according to an ARD investigation
Russia has likely been secretly testing or deploying ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads on the seabed in special containers at depths of hundreds of meters for several years.
This is according to an investigation by Tagesschau (ARD), prepared by journalists from WDR and NDR.
For several months, the journalists analyzed satellite images, Russian scientific databases, historical documents, and interviews with military personnel and experts.
As a result, they concluded that NATO intelligence is closely monitoring the Russian ship Zvezdochka, which is based in Severodvinsk.
According to the investigation, the Zvezdochka may be involved in a secret military project called “Skif.”
This concept involves placing missiles in underwater containers or silos, storing them at a depth of several hundred meters, and enabling remote launch without a crew.
In addition to the surface vessel, the report also mentions the special submarine “Sarov.”
According to sources, the “Skif” missile is a modification of the “Sineva,” may have a range of several thousand kilometers, and is capable of being launched directly from the seabed.
The first tests were allegedly conducted several years ago.
Experts believe that such a system serves several purposes: making it harder to detect and destroy missiles, reducing dependence on manned submarines, and enhancing nuclear deterrence capabilities.
As researcher Helge Adrians noted, “Russia can achieve the effect of nuclear deterrence—which usually requires manned submarines—with minimal effort and expense.”
Experts believe the project also has a psychological effect, aimed at creating pressure and uncertainty in Western countries.
Military historian Matthias Ul emphasizes that such systems function not only as weapons but also as instruments of political influence.
In 1971, an international treaty was signed prohibiting the deployment of nuclear weapons on the seabed in international waters. However, it does not cover the territorial waters of states, leaving legal loopholes.
NATO and the Russian Ministry of Defense have not commented on the investigation. The Russian Embassy stated that it “has no information on this matter.”
The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation officially announced the start of large-scale military exercises involving strategic nuclear forces, which will take place from May 19 to 21, 2026.
Ukraine reacted sharply to the joint nuclear exercises between Russia and Belarus, stating that they violate international treaties and pose a threat to global security. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Moscow is effectively turning Belarus into a nuclear springboard near NATO’s borders.
