Historic Launch at Sevmash Shipyard
The Russian Federation officially launched its new nuclear submarine, the Khabarovsk (Project 09851), on Saturday, November 1, 2025. The ceremonial event took place at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk, a key shipbuilding enterprise in Russia. The launch was attended by high-ranking officials, including Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and Russian Naval Chief Admiral Alexander Moiseyev.
Defence Minister Belousov hailed the occasion as a 'significant event' and a 'symbol of Russia's technological prowess and maritime might,' emphasizing that the submarine, equipped with 'underwater weapons and robotic systems,' will bolster Russia's maritime security and protect its national interests across the world's oceans.
Designed for 'Poseidon' Underwater Drones
The Khabarovsk is widely understood to be the primary dedicated carrier for the Poseidon nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), also known as the 'doomsday missile.' This strategic weapon system is designed to travel at great depths and intercontinental distances, capable of exceeding the speed of conventional submarines and torpedoes. Russian officials have indicated that the Poseidon is intended to create radioactive tsunamis, posing a threat to coastal targets.
President Vladimir Putin recently announced a successful test of the Poseidon drone's nuclear power unit, noting its miniaturized reactor is significantly smaller than that of a strategic submarine. The Khabarovsk-class submarines are expected to carry up to six Poseidon drones.
Technical Specifications and Future Deployment
Construction of the Khabarovsk began in July 2014, with initial launch plans experiencing delays. While specific technical details remain largely classified, open sources suggest the Project 09851 submarine has a surfaced displacement of approximately 10,000 tons and a length of around 113 meters. It is also expected to feature conventional torpedo tubes for self-defense.
Following its launch, the Khabarovsk will undergo a series of outfitting, harbor, and sea trials, a process expected to take several years before its official commissioning into the Russian Navy. It is anticipated to be deployed to the Northern Fleet by 2027. The Belgorod submarine (Project 09852) is another vessel capable of carrying the Poseidon system, having been launched earlier.
Strategic Implications
The introduction of the Khabarovsk and its Poseidon payload represents a new dimension in Russia's strategic undersea posture, distinct from traditional ballistic missile submarines. This development is seen as a move to enhance Russia's maritime deterrence and could complicate anti-submarine warfare strategies for other naval powers.
5 Comments
Fuerza
The technological achievement of the Khabarovsk and Poseidon is undeniable, showcasing advanced engineering. However, the potential for accidental or intentional use of such a devastating weapon raises serious ethical and geopolitical concerns.
Manolo Noriega
From Russia's perspective, this is a clear signal of strength and a bolster to their national interests. However, for other nations, it's perceived as a significant increase in an already tense military environment, pushing us closer to a new Cold War era.
Fuerza
Russia's naval power growing strong! A true deterrent.
Ongania
This new submarine definitely enhances Russia's strategic deterrence, which is a stated goal for their military. Yet, the concept of nuclear-armed drones designed for radioactive tsunamis feels like a dangerous escalation that demands international dialogue.
Fuerza
This technology is a direct threat to world peace. Pure madness.