The Russian Severodvinsk Shipyard has launched the first Khabarovsk class 10,000 ton nuclear powered submarine, which represents an entirely new type of strategic warship designed specifically to deploy 2M39 Poseidon nuclear-armed underwater drones.
The procurement of Khabarovsk class is expected to complement investments in expanding the fleet of Borei II class ballistic missile submarines, pioneering a second means of delivering mass strategic nuclear attacks by sea.
Attending the ship’s launch ceremony, Russian Defence Minister Andrey Belousov observed:
“Today is a significant event for us: the heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser Khabarovsk is being launched from the slipway of the renowned Sevmash shipyard.” “Carrying underwater weapons and robotic systems, it will enable us to successfully accomplish missions related to ensuring the security of Russia’s maritime borders and protecting its national interests in various parts of the world’s oceans,” he added.