Russia tests submarine that can carry up to 300 nuclear warheads
Russia's Borei-A class submarines are formidable because they are equipped with up to 30 Bulava missiles, each containing 10 nuclear warheads.
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Russia's first Borei-A class nuclear submarine Knyaz Vladimir during its launching ceremony on November 17, 2017. Photo:RT. |
Knyaz Vladimir, tRussia's first Borei-A class nuclear-powered strategic submarine is being built by engineersshipyardSevmash in the city of Severodvinsksea trialsbefore handing over to the country's navy,RTDecember 3, citing military sources.
Knyaz Vladimir is the first of five Russian Project 955A fifth-generation submarines. Construction began in 2012 and the vessel was launched on November 17 last year.Outside KnyazVladimir, the Russian Navy is continuing to complete four more Borei-A class nuclear submarines.KnyazOleg, Generalissimo Suvorov, Alexander the Great III andKnyazPozharsky.
The Borei-class submarines are designed to replace the Akula and Delfin-class boats as a key component of Russia's nuclear deterrent triad. The ships are 170 m long, 13.5 m wide and have a displacement of 24,000 tonnes, a maximum submerged speed of 56 km/h and an unlimited range.
The main weapons of the Borei class are 16-30 R-30 (RSM-56) Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles, as well as other cruise missiles. Each Bulava missile can carry 10 nuclear warheads, reaching a maximum range of about 8,000 km, allowing the ship to carry up to 300 nuclear warheads. The missile is compact in size, uses a solid-fuel engine, has high flight speed and maneuverability, allowing it to overcome many of today's most advanced ballistic missile shields.
With this number of missiles, experts assess the power of a Borei-class submarine can surpass a large army. Nuclear submarines are the most effective, automated and stealthy part of Russia's nuclear deterrent triad. They can operate thousands of kilometers from shore and are not dependent on weather conditions.
Meanwhile, the upgraded Borei-A class ships have significantly improved communication systems, noise levels and crew compartment space.
