Subsequent launch of submarine-launched ballistic missile Bulava will be carried out in third quarter of 2010 by SSBN Dmitry Donskoy, reported RIA Novosti citing Vladimir Popovkin, Deputy Minister of Defense for armament.
"Launches will be resumed in third quarter of 2010. The first launch will be performed by SSBN Dmitry Donskoy. Next launch platform will be defined upon results of the first test launch", Popovkin said.
In prospect, Bulava is expected to become a basis of maritime strategic nuclear forces; new submarines designed for this missile have been already laid down. Example, SSBN Yury Dolgoruky presently passes sea trials. However, only 5 out of 12 test launches were successful. The latest launch of Bulava was carried out on Dec 9, 2009 and also failed. Date of further tests has been postponed several times.
"Interagency board is finishing its inquiry into reasons of previous faulty launches. The final protocol will be signed in the nearest future", said Popovkin.