Russian nuclear submarine 'Losharik' set for tests after repairs

According to reports from Reuters, quoting the Russian state agency TASS, the Russian nuclear-powered submarine AS-31, nicknamed "Losharik," is scheduled for testing in June or July. The vessel has been under repair for several years.

"The repair of Losharik is almost complete," TASS reported, citing an anonymous military source. "Once the remaining work is finished, the vessel is planned to embark on tests in June or July of this year," the source added.

The TASS source also noted that after the repairs, the vessel will maintain its capability to dive to a depth of nearly 19,685 feet. Losharik is among the most secretive submarines in the Russian fleet. In 2019, the submarine suffered a fire onboard, resulting in the tragic loss of 14 sailors, and has been undergoing repairs since then.

Vladimir Putin has stated that Russia is fully prepared for the possibility of a nuclear war, though it is not an outcome it actively pursues, according to PAP. "We are not rushing towards this," Putin highlighted, as quoted by Reuters. He also assured that Moscow would be ready to work with any president of the United States elected by American voters.

In a detailed interview for the Rossija-1 television and RIA Novosti agency, reported by Reuters, Putin voiced Russia's readiness to employ nuclear weapons if the country's sovereignty is under threat. "From a military-technical perspective, we are certainly prepared," he declared.

Source: Reuters, PAP