Flight tests of the Bulava missile are expected to resume in March 2009. According to Interfax, officials are now more cautious about the prospects of the missile - no firm statements about beginning deployment in 2009 are made this time (although it is not ruled out). It looks like the plan is to have more than five flight tests of Bulava in 2009. Assuming that things go well for the missile, the tests will include a single launch and a salvo launch from the Yuri Dolgorukyy submarine.
In the last test, in December 2009, the missile failed due to a problem with the third stage.
The book
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Already disproved.
Dates of the next test "Bulava" is not defined - Navy
http://www.rian.ru/defense_safety/20090212/161889240.html
Thank you. I guess it just shows the uncertainty that surrounds the program these days.
I found the "ice-covered White Sea" excuse quite interesting. I've never been up there, but are ice conditions at White Sea much worse in March than in December (the time of the last test)?
Perhaps spring ice conditions, breaking ice flows and random moving bergs, would bring a different technical challenge to the underwater testing process?
No clue myself but I also thought it was an interesting question in search of an informed answer.
Frank Shuler
USA
http://arms-tass.su/?page=article&aid=67063&cid=25
Here's todays arms-tass article stating at least 5 more launches from Donskoy, and then at least two launches from YD, with one of the YD launches being with two missiles at once.
The Russian Defense Ministry announced that it will cut 207 Billion Roubles from the Military Budget for 2009, this will include developments of new technology and weapons.
My first choice would be the "Bulava". But I fear they will cut programs that Russia needs. I don't expect positive results, the person making these decisions are civilians.