MOSCOW, November 2, 2025: Russia has officially launched its new nuclear-powered submarine, the Khabarovsk, at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk, marking a major step in the country’s ongoing naval modernization program. The launch ceremony was attended by Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov and senior naval officials, highlighting the submarine’s strategic role within the Russian Navy. According to the Ministry of Defence, the Khabarovsk is classified as a heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser equipped with advanced underwater and robotic weapons systems. Minister Belousov described the launch as a significant milestone for the Russian Navy, stating that the vessel will enhance the protection of the nation’s maritime borders and bolster security across global waters.
Modern missile systems enhance Russia’s nuclear naval deterrence and sea power. (AI-generated image)The submarine will now undergo a comprehensive series of sea trials before being commissioned into active service. Built under Project 09851, the Khabarovsk is reported to be among the most advanced nuclear-powered submarines developed by the Sevmash shipyard, a facility recognized for producing several generations of strategic submarines for the Russian Navy. The vessel was rolled out following several years of construction and testing of key components, with engineers emphasizing improvements in propulsion efficiency, noise reduction, and underwater endurance. Russian defense authorities stated that the Khabarovsk has been specifically designed to operate as a carrier for the Poseidon nuclear-powered underwater drone.
Poseidon underwater drone integration confirmed
This system, also known by its development name “Status-6,” is capable of long-range, deep-sea operation. The vessel’s design includes the infrastructure required for deployment and control of such underwater vehicles, integrating cutting-edge navigation, sonar, and autonomous system interfaces. Following the formal launch, the submarine was transferred from its construction berth into the water, marking the start of its sea trial phase. These tests will include assessments of the propulsion plant, nuclear reactor performance, hydrodynamic stability, and weapons integration systems. The Ministry of Defence confirmed that all trial operations will be conducted under strict safety and technical supervision.
The launch of Khabarovsk is part of a broader Russian initiative to strengthen its nuclear-powered fleet, which includes both ballistic missile and multipurpose submarines. In recent years, Russia has invested heavily in submarine infrastructure and production facilities in Severodvinsk and other Arctic shipyards. The Sevmash complex remains the cornerstone of Russia’s submarine production, with ongoing projects that include the Borei-A and Yasen-M classes. President Vladimir Putin has previously emphasized the importance of expanding Russia’s submarine capabilities as a means of ensuring strategic deterrence and maritime security. The Khabarovsk adds to the fleet of advanced submarines already delivered to the Russian Navy and reflects continued investment in undersea technologies.
Naval expansion part of long-term modernization effort
Russian naval command officials stated that the Khabarovsk represents a new generation of nuclear submarines capable of extended operations under Arctic and deep-ocean conditions. Once sea trials are successfully completed, the submarine will be formally accepted into service and assigned to a designated fleet command. The exact commissioning timeline has not been disclosed. The launch underscores Russia’s commitment to maintaining its status as a leading naval power and advancing its nuclear submarine technology through state-backed shipbuilding programs. The Khabarovsk will continue its testing phase over the coming months before joining the operational fleet upon final certification. – By EuroWire News Desk.