Next launch of Bulava to be held in spring 2011

27.12.2010 Subsequent test launch of submarine-based ballistic missile (SLBM) Bulava will be conducted in spring 2011, said Navy Commander-in-Chief Vladimir Vysotsky at press conference.

"Next launch will be held next year. Most likely, in spring", he said.

According to him, it will be impossible to launch the missile in January or February because of ice situation in the firing range.

Initially, the test launch was to be conducted on Dec 17, although it was decided to postpone the trials – the White Sea is covered with ice.

As for now, 14 launches have been already performed, seven of them failed. Four or five tests are scheduled in 2011; once they are successful, the missile can be commissioned into Russian Navy.

SLBM Bulava is expected to become the core element of Russia's naval nuclear strategic force; new Bulava-carrying submarines are presently under construction.