NATO Trolls Malfunctioning Russian Submarine in English Channel
- Teh Russian diesel-electric submarine Novorossiysk, a kilo-class unit, surfaced off the coast of Brittany, France, last week.
- The surfacing drew a pointed comment from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, referencing the 1984 film "The Hunt for Red October." Rutte quipped: "What a change since 1984's...
- The Novorossiysk belongs to the Kilo-class (Project 636.3) of submarines, known for their quiet operation and advanced weaponry.These submarines are considered a significant asset in the Russian Navy,...
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Russian submarine Surfaces Near France, Sparks NATO Commentary
What Happened?
Teh Russian diesel-electric submarine Novorossiysk, a kilo-class unit, surfaced off the coast of Brittany, France, last week. While Moscow claims this was a routine channel crossing, the Dutch Navy reported the submarine was being escorted by a tugboat in the North Sea, suggesting a potential mechanical issue
as reported by Ars Technica.
The surfacing drew a pointed comment from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, referencing the 1984 film “The Hunt for Red October.”
Rutte quipped: “What a change since 1984’s ‘Hunt for Red October’! Today, they prefer to look for the nearest mechanic.”
The Kilo-Class Submarine: A Detailed Look
The Novorossiysk belongs to the Kilo-class (Project 636.3) of submarines, known for their quiet operation and advanced weaponry.These submarines are considered a significant asset in the Russian Navy, notably for operations in littoral waters.
| Characteristic | specification (Project 636.3) |
|---|---|
| Displacement (surfaced) | 3,073 tons |
| Displacement (submerged) | 4,030 tons |
| length | 73.8 meters (242 ft) |
| Beam | 9.9 meters (32 ft 6 in) |
| Speed (surfaced) | 12 knots |
| Speed (submerged) | 20 knots |
| Range | 400 nautical miles (740 km) at 3 knots (submerged) |
| Crew | 52 |
According to Wikipedia,Kilo-class submarines are equipped with torpedoes,mines,and anti-ship missiles,posing a considerable threat to surface vessels.
Why Does This Matter?
the surfacing of a Russian submarine near European waters, even with a potential mechanical issue, is a notable event. It serves as a demonstration of Russia’s military capabilities and its willingness to operate close to NATO member states.
The incident also highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and the West,particularly in the context of the war in ukraine. While the submarine’s presence may not be directly linked to the conflict, it underscores the heightened state of alert and the potential for miscalculation.
Timeline of Events
- October 2024: The Novorossiysk surfaces near Brittany, france.
- October 27, 2024: The Dutch Navy reports the submarine was being escorted by a tugboat.
- october 27, 2024: NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte makes a public comment referencing “The Hunt for Red October.”