Project 955A submarines feature cutting-edge detection and communication systems, a lower acoustic profile, and significant structural improvements.
On October 16, the Pacific Fleet press service announced the completion of a significant event in Kamchatka: the docking of the nuclear missile submarine “Generalissimus Suvorov,” belonging to project 955A [ Borei- A ]. This event symbolized the end of the unit’s move from the Northern Fleet to its new permanent location in the Pacific Fleet, specifically Kamchatka.
This important event occurred at the Vilyuchinsk naval base, where the submarine forces of the Pacific Fleet officially received the submarine, with Admiral Viktor Lean, leader of the Pacific Fleet, presiding over the ceremony. During his speech, Admiral Lean highlighted the significance of incorporating the submarine, mentioned by the press service: “Today is a historic and crucial moment for the Pacific Fleet … The Pacific Fleet’s operational capabilities have increased, guaranteeing greater military security in the Asia-Pacific region.”
Senior military officials and government authorities of the Kamchatka region, such as Governor Vladimir Solodov, attended the event. The submarine’s crew experienced a warm reception, with an honor guard, musicians and their families waiting for them at the dock.
The ceremony culminated with an impressive ceremonial march, ending the official reception of the submarine at the base.
In reference to the previous operations of the submarine, in November 2022, the “Generalissimo Suvorov” completed all the necessary testing stages, participating in several missions at sea. These tests were organized to verify the functionality of the submarine in various operational scenarios.
During these tests, the submarine and its crew successfully fulfilled the established missions. Specifically, the “Generalissimo Suvorov” showed its effectiveness by launching a Bulava ballistic missile into the White Sea, aimed at the Kura test range in Kamchatka.
As the second submarine in the Borei-A project series, the “Generalissimo Suvorov” is expected to strengthen the strategic naval nuclear forces of the Russian Federation for many decades to come.
This submarine, part of the fourth generation of nuclear missile submarines, is equipped with the latest technology in missile-torpedo systems and advanced navigation, radio and hydroacoustic equipment.
Project 955A submarines feature cutting-edge detection and communication systems, a lower acoustic profile, and significant structural improvements. This includes the addition of movable rudders and tail fins for better maneuverability and a unique hull design.
They are also equipped with hydraulic thrusters and optimized propellers, allowing them to move almost silently underwater at speeds close to 30 knots.
Despite original plans to equip them with 20 Bulava SLBMs, the 955A was eventually configured to carry 16 SLBMs, each with 6 to 10 nuclear warheads, similar to the project 955 submarines.
A contract for five modified 955A submarines faced multiple obstacles and delays due to differences over costs between the Russian Ministry of Defense and the United Shipbuilding Corporation, finally closing on May 28, 2012.
The first 955A submarine, the “Knyaz Vladimir,” began construction at a special event on July 30, 2012, with the presence of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Construction of other project 955A submarines continued in 2014, late 2015 and late 2016.
Interestingly, all Borei-A submarines will have Aspen banyas, designed for 3-4 people, as indicated by Vitaliy Bukovskiy, a representative of Sevmash.
