Russia has begun sea trials for its new nuclear-armed submarine, the Khabarovsk, a 10,000-ton vessel designed to carry six Poseidon torpedoes. These weapons, each with a two-megaton yield, are capable of triggering a radioactive tsunami.
The Khabarovsk, named after Russian explorer Yerofey Khabarov, is undergoing extensive testing in the White Sea. The trials will assess its mooring protocols, propulsion, steering, diving capabilities, and sonar and onboard computer systems. The submarine is eventually expected to join Russia's Pacific Fleet.
The Khabarovsk is a unique, 'special purpose' vessel, distinct from Russia's Borei-A class ballistic missile submarines. It features a widened bow to accommodate the six Poseidon torpedoes, which are significantly larger than conventional torpedoes. The RFS Belgorod is the only other submarine confirmed to be capable of launching Poseidon torpedoes, carrying three.
The Poseidon torpedoes are designed to travel underwater at high speeds, approximately 70 knots and at depths of up to 1000 meters, powered by onboard nuclear reactors that give them an essentially unlimited range. They are described as autonomous, maneuverable vessels. The torpedoes are intended to self-detonate before reaching their target, with the primary danger being the subsequent radioactive tsunami generated by the powerful warheads. This tsunami could render coastal areas uninhabitable for generations.
Dr. Richard Connolly, a military expert on Russia, has characterized the Poseidon as a 'boutique capability' designed for 'very worst-case scenarios.' Some Russian commentators have suggested deploying these weapons against Britain in response to its support for Ukraine. The Russian Embassy in the UK has stated that increased British support for Ukraine will lead to a higher price being paid by Britain.
Construction on the Khabarovsk began in 2014, following a contract awarded in 2012. Delays, potentially related to the COVID-19 pandemic and economic pressures from the invasion of Ukraine, meant the submarine did not emerge from its construction hangar until November of the previous year. Russian President Vladimir Putin described the vessel as having unprecedented speed and depth capabilities, stating there were 'no ways to intercept' it.
The submarine has a range of approximately 6,200 miles, a top speed of 32 knots, and an operational depth of several hundred meters. It requires a crew of 100 and can remain at sea for up to 120 days. Its propulsion system uses a single-shaft pump jet, which is quieter than traditional propellers and makes the submarine harder to detect.
Russia is reportedly constructing at least two more nuclear-armed submarines: the Ulyanovsk, construction of which began in 2017, and another vessel designated Orenburg.
Experts have expressed concern over Britain's preparedness for such threats, with Admiral Lord West noting a decline in defense spending on submarine programs compared to the Cold War era. He described Russia's investment in modernizing its weapons systems as worrying, especially given its current financial struggles.