Breaking the Ice: Russian Nuclear Submarine Completes Daring Arctic Odyssey
Today’s world military (September 17) has the following content: Russian nuclear submarine completes journey under the ice in the Arctic; Armenia “expresses interest” in buying Astra missiles from India; US Navy puts new submarine into operation.
* Russian nuclear submarine completes journey under the ice in the Arctic
According to information released by Tass on September 16, two Russian nuclear-powered submarines, Borei-A Imperator Alexander III and Yasen-M Krasnoyarsk, recently completed an under-ice journey in the Arctic, moving through six Arctic seas in challenging ice conditions.
Krasnoyarsk (K-571) is a Yasen-M class nuclear-powered attack submarine, designed to carry a variety of long-range cruise missiles. Photo: TASS
The Yasen-M (Project 885M) and Borei-A (Project 955A) classes both play a key role in Russia’s naval modernization, however, they have different operational roles, reflecting the distinct requirements of tactical and strategic operations.
The Yasen-M is a class of nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSGNs), designed to carry a variety of long-range cruise missiles, including the Kalibr and Oniks, and has been upgraded to incorporate Zircon hypersonic missiles. This configuration allows the submarine to attack a variety of land, sea and even submarine targets at considerable distances. The submarine can carry between 24 and 40 missiles, with the UKSK VLS vertical launch system designed for a variety of missions. The attack submarine class is equipped with 10 torpedo tubes (533mm), enhancing its close-range combat capability against enemy submarines and surface ships.
One of the highlights of the Yasen-M class is its stealth technology. The submarine is equipped with advanced sonar systems such as the MGK-600 Irtysh-Amfora, which enhance detection capabilities while maintaining a minimum noise level. The hull is built primarily from low-magnetic steel and noise-reduction techniques, including a modern fourth-generation nuclear reactor, help reduce acoustic signatures. Reports suggest the submarine can operate at speeds of 37-51km/h in “silent mode,” a feature that rivals some of the quietest submarines in the world, such as the US Virginia-class.
The Borei-A is a class of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) designed for strategic nuclear deterrence. Unlike the tactical focus of the Yasen-M, the Borei-A is designed to provide Russia with a secure strike capability in the event of a nuclear conflict. Each Borei-A class submarine carries 16 Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles (SLBMs), each capable of carrying 6-10 warheads, providing a large number of nuclear warheads that can be launched from underwater at a distance, protecting the submarine from immediate detection.
The Borei-A’s design also emphasizes stealth, but focuses on broad-spectrum noise reduction through a pump-jet propulsion system. This feature, a first for a Russian submarine, significantly reduces acoustic characteristics, allowing the vessel to operate more quietly than previous generations. It is one of the quietest SSBNs in the Russian arsenal, designed to avoid detection by enemy sonar systems and maintain a state of readiness in the event of a nuclear crisis.
*Armenia “expresses interest” in buying Astra air-to-air missiles from India
The Armenian government is reportedly looking to purchase Indian-made missiles, including the Astra beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, and upgrades for its Su-30 fighter fleet.
An Astra air-to-air missile is launched from an Indian Air Force Su-30 fighter jet. Photo: Wikimedia
The Astra missile, developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has attracted attention for its accuracy, range and integration into Indian Air Force platforms such as the Sukhoi Su-30MKI and Tejas fighters.
With the ability to engage targets at a distance of up to 110km, the Astra is equipped with an active radar seeker, ensuring a high probability of kill in combat situations. For Armenia, the Astra missile offers an opportunity to upgrade its air combat readiness, especially as the country faces complex security threats in the region. Discussions with India on the procurement of the missile are seen as part of an initiative to modernize the Armenian military and strengthen the country’s self-defense capabilities.
In addition to purchasing missiles, Armenia is also interested in upgrading its existing fleet of Sukhoi-30 (Su-30) fighter jets. According to The Print, Armenia is considering cooperation with India to improve the combat effectiveness and range of its Su-30 aircraft. India, which operates one of the largest fleets of Su-30MKI jets, has extensive experience in upgrading and customizing these aircraft, especially in integrating modern avionics and weapons.
The Su-30 is a twin-engine, multi-role fighter and any upgrades would significantly enhance Armenia’s air power. Modernization could include improved radar systems, improved electronic warfare capabilities and integration of new air-to-ground and air-to-air weapons.
If the deals materialize, Armenia could become one of the major buyers of Indian defense technology in the region, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations.
* US Navy puts new submarine into operation
The US Navy has commissioned its newest Virginia-class fast attack submarine, USS New Jersey (SSN 796), at Earle Weapons Station, located south of Middletown, New Jersey.
The newest Virginia-class fast attack submarine, USS New Jersey (SSN 796), joins the US Navy fleet. Photo: Defence Blog
The USS New Jersey is the US Navy’s first integrated fast attack submarine, built for both male and female sailors. It is 376 feet long, 35 feet wide, and displaces 7,835 tons. It can dive to depths of more than 800 feet and travel at speeds of over 29 miles per hour. Powered by nuclear power, it can stay submerged for long periods without having to surface. It is also optimized for shallow water operations.
With a crew of 135, the submarine is designed to perform a variety of missions, including anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, special operations, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The USS New Jersey is equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles with a range of up to 1,600km, a very low margin of error, and a cruising speed of 890km/h. The missiles are highly survivable, fly low, and are difficult to detect by enemy radar.
QUYNH OANH (synthetic)