Russia launches advanced Knyaz Pozharskiy nuclear sub amid naval upgrade
On February 3, 2024, the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk, northern Russia, saw the launch of the nuclear ballistic missile submarine Knyaz Pozharskiy (K-555). It represents the eighth vessel of the Borei-class series and, specifically, the fifth ship constructed under the improved Borei-A variant.
While the Bulava's specifics remain undisclosed, accessible data suggests that it is roughly 43 feet long with a 6.6-foot diameter and weighs between 40 and 43 tons. Capable of delivering up to 10 independently targetable nuclear warheads—each with a yield of up to 160 kilotons—over a range of approximately 5,157 miles, the missile also boasts an estimated precision within 820 feet. According to Russian officials, these warheads can maneuver mid-flight to evade Western anti-missile defenses potentially.
Launched into construction in 2016, the completion of Knyaz Pozharskiy experienced several delays, moving from an initial 2021 end to a later 2022 deadline before concluding in early 2024. The submarine now faces a series of rigorous shipyard and state trials, which will test its navigation and propulsion systems, weaponry, and other significant components. These evaluations will occur in the White Sea, with participation from both shipyard and navy experts. If successful, the submarine might be commissioned into the Navy within two years.
Knyaz Pozharskiy is poised to join the Northern Fleet, with Gadzhiyevo on the Barents Sea coast as the primary base for such missile-carrying submarines. These vessels typically undertake combat patrols in the northeastern Barents Sea and beneath the polar ice caps in the far north.
In an ambitious plan to modernize its naval capabilities, Russia intends to construct 12 submarines in the Borei and Borei-A class, facilitating the retirement of the earlier Project 667BDR Kalmar submarines from the Pacific Fleet and Project 667BDRM Delfin from the Northern Fleet.
