Recent satellite images have revealed the extensive size of Russia’s latest nuclear-powered submarine, equipped to launch powerful nuclear torpedoes.
The Khabarovsk-class submarine, Moscow’s newest nuclear asset, was showcased in full dimensions for the first time in the most recent satellite pictures. The submarine, which can deploy atomic torpedoes, was observed docked at the Sevmash shipyard workshop.
The Sevmash shipyard is the designated site where the new submarines of Project 09851, the Khabarovsk class submarines for the Russian Navy, are being constructed. This nuclear submarine measures approximately 135 to 140 meters in length and around 13.5 meters in width, with the capability to launch Russia’s new nuclear-powered ‘Poseidon’ torpedoes.
The Poseidon torpedoes possess the ability to generate a potent tsunami capable of causing severe destruction to coastal cities. Apart from carrying a nuclear warhead, they also have an ‘intercontinental range’ capability.
Described by the Russian Ministry of Defence as a “nuclear-powered missile cruiser,” the Khabarovsk submarine is one of the most secretive projects of the Russian Navy. While it is not confirmed whether the new submarine will carry ballistic missiles, the primary armament is expected to be the Poseidon torpedoes, complemented by land-attack and anti-ship cruise missiles, as well as traditional torpedoes.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s new submarine was launched in the northern city of Severodvinsk over the weekend. However, the launch was delayed by five years from the original schedule due to unexplained delays.
Defence Minister Andrei Belousov stated, “The heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser Khabarovsk is being launched from the renowned Sevmash shipyard. Equipped with underwater weapons and robotic systems, it will enable us to effectively safeguard Russia’s maritime borders and defend its national interests across various regions of the world’s oceans.”
Powered by a nuclear engine, the massive submarine can dive to depths of approximately 500 meters and sustain prolonged periods at sea. Based on the hull of the Borei class submarine, the Khabarovsk submarine features a similar-looking stern with a pump-jet propulsor, partly concealed during the launch to obscure specific details.
Although construction costs for the submarine are undisclosed, estimations suggest it surpasses £1 billion. Analysts caution that the secrecy surrounding the new vessel’s full structure underscores Moscow’s apprehension of Western surveillance and indicates that much of the Khabarovsk’s design remains experimental.
Another submarine of the same class, the Ulyanovsk, is currently under construction and anticipated to join Russia’s Pacific Fleet. Together, these submarines will provide Russia with dual-ocean capability to deploy the Poseidon system, designed to instill fear on a global scale.
The Khabarovsk is slated to undergo sea trials before joining Russia’s nuclear deterrent fleet, as per Belousov. Meanwhile, Poseidon, known as ‘Kanyon’ by NATO, measures 20 meters in length, 1.8 meters in diameter, and weighs 100 tonnes, challenging conventional nuclear deterrence and classification protocols, as per arms control experts.
Recently, Putin announced the successful testing of the new missile underwater, asserting that Poseidon’s power surpasses even the ‘Sarmat’ intercontinental-range missile. He emphasized the exceptional speed and depth capabilities of the unmanned vehicle, suggesting unparalleled superiority. The unveiling of these weapons in 2018 was portrayed by Putin as a response to the US missile defense initiatives following the 2001 withdrawal from the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty and NATO’s expansion.