As part of the same meeting in which plans to expand the fleet of conventional Lada-class attack submarines were announced, Russian President Vladimir Putin revealed the decision to proceed with the construction of two additional Yasen-M nuclear-powered submarines. These new vessels would add to the four already under construction at the Sevmash shipyards. This announcement comes nearly simultaneously with the launch ceremony of the new Borei-A class submarine Knyaz Pozharsky (K-555), reflecting the notable expansion of Russia’s submarine fleet.
Quoting some of President Putin’s statements during the meeting—which was attended by high-ranking naval and industry officials—he said: “The Yasen-M class multipurpose nuclear submarines form the core of the conventional strike capability of the Navy. Currently, four Yasen-M class multipurpose submarines, nuclear-powered and equipped with cruise missiles, are under construction at the Sevmash shipyard. The plans include the construction of two more submarines of this class.”
According to the Russian president, the Yasen-M submarines will stand out for their ability to launch high-precision hypersonic Zirkon missiles, in addition to being equipped with the most modern communication, navigation, and sonar systems available to the Russian Navy. One example is the Perm submarine, part of the group built at Sevmash, which is the first of its class to be armed with such weaponry, enhancing the attack capabilities of Russia’s submarine fleet. Notably, Perm was launched this past March, with President Putin also attending the ceremony.
It is also worth noting that the recently announced additional Yasen-M submarines would be added to the 12 units that were already part of the Navy’s plans by the end of 2023. These are to be assigned to operate with the Northern and Pacific Fleets. Designed by the Malakhit Marine Engineering Bureau, the Yasen-M submarines are intended as long-term replacements for the older Oscar and Akula-class submarines inherited from the Soviet era, whose production initially faced setbacks due to the collapse of the USSR during the 1990s.
Lastly, it is important to highlight that for Russia, submarine construction goes beyond the expansion of the Yasen-M class alone—the continuation of the Borei-A and Lada programs is clear evidence of this. This broader vision was underscored by the Russian president’s remarks: “We need a modern and well-equipped fleet, capable of adequately responding to current and future threats and risks. That is why improving the capabilities of the Navy, including its submarine forces, is one of our top priorities (…) Naturally, the priority is the construction of strategic missile submarines, one of the key components of our nuclear triad which, I repeat, allows Russia to maintain the balance of power in the world.”
Images used for illustrative purposes only
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