Russia to Resume Construction of Diesel Subs

Viktor Chirkov

 Russia will resume series production of non-nuclear Project 677 Lada-class submarines, Navy chief Vice Adm. Viktor Chirkov said on Friday.

Construction of two Lada-class subs, the Sevastopol and the Kronshtadt, was frozen because of the project’s purported inefficiency.

Chirkov said the technical project has been adjusted and construction of the two subs will resume shortly.

The "fourth generation" diesel-electric submarine features quieter, new combat systems and air-independent propulsion.

Russia to Lay Down Fourth Borei Class Sub July 30

Borei class (Project 955A) ballistic missile submarine

Russia's fourth Borei class (Project 955A) ballistic missile submarine will be officially laid down at a ceremony on July 30, Russian Navy Commander Vice-Admiral Viktor Chirkov said on Thursday.

The Borei class is set to become the mainstay of the Russian Navy's strategic nuclear deterrent fleet, replacing the ageing Project 941 (NATO Typhoon class) and Project 667 class (Delta-3 and Delta-4) boats.

"The official ceremony for laying down the Borei-class boat, named Knyaz Vladimir, will be held on Monday July 30," Chirkov said.

Three other Borei class boats are at various stages of development at the Sevmash shipyard on the Kola peninsula. Yury Dolgoruky is currently undergoing sea trials, whilst Alexander Nevsky and Vladimir Monomakh are under construction.

The Borei class will be armed with the Bulava ballistic missile, which is also in the final stage of development and due to enter service on Yury Dolgoruky later this year.