Russian submarine build-up near NATO raises regional tensions
In early March 2025, satellite images revealed the presence of five Russian submarines at Zapadnaya Litsa, the largest naval base of the Russian Northern Fleet, located on the Kola Peninsula near Norway's border. Among these submarines were three Oscar II class units, one Yasen class submarine, and one modern Yasen-M class submarine.
The Zapadnaya Litsa base, situated just 37 miles from NATO territory, is a vital point for the Russian Northern Fleet. The presence of advanced submarines underscores Moscow's investments in underwater capabilities amid rising tensions in the region, reports Bulgarian Military.
Russian submarines near NATO
Russian Oscar II, Yasen, and Yasen-M class submarines rank among the most powerful units in the Russian fleet, designed for dominance in underwater operations and long-range strikes. Oscar II class submarines, also known as Project 949A Antey, were developed in the 1980s as a response by the USSR to American aircraft carriers.
Oscar II submarines are approximately 509 feet long, have a displacement of up to 26,000 tons, and can reach speeds of 37 miles per hour underwater. Their main strike force consists of P-700 Granit anti-ship missiles, capable of destroying large surface units. They are also equipped with 533 mm and 650 mm caliber torpedoes. Some of these submarines have been upgraded to carry modern Kalibr missiles.
The Yasen class (Project 885) represents a new generation of Russian multi-purpose nuclear-powered submarines. These submarines are about 456 feet long, with a displacement of 15,200 tons, and can achieve speeds of up to 36 miles per hour. Their armament includes Kalibr, Oniks, and hypersonic Zircon cruise missiles, suitable for both maritime and land attacks. The weapon system is complemented by 533 mm torpedoes.
The Yasen-M (Project 885M) is an enhanced version of the Yasen class, featuring improved command systems, sonar, and reduced noise emissions. These submarines are slightly shorter, have a displacement of about 14,300 tons, and can carry up to 40 Kalibr, Oniks, or Zircon missiles, providing Russia with the capability for both conventional and nuclear strikes over distances of several thousand miles.
The Arctic as a battleground of various influences
The Zapadnaya Litsa base is crucial to Russia's bastion defense strategy, which protects its strategic submarines. As noted by Bulgarian Military, experts suggest that the submarines' presence at this location may imply preparations for increased activity in the Barents Sea or other areas. The Russian Ministry of Defense has not commented directly on these reports, but previous statements highlight the Northern Fleet's role in safeguarding national interests.
For NATO, the concentration of submarines in Zapadnaya Litsa poses a challenge, observes the Bulgarian military-themed service. The base is located near key alliance maritime routes, and modern submarines like the Yasen-M are of particular interest to Western navies. Norway has increased surveillance over the region using P-8 Poseidon aircraft and underwater sensors to monitor activity beneath the surface.
