Russian Pacific fleet welcomes nuclear missile submarine as newest addition

The Russian press service of its Pacific Fleet confirmed the ceremonial assembly of a strategic nuclear missile submarine named “Generalissimus Suvorov”, belonging to the 955A [Borei-A].

As reported by Kamtoday.Ru, the ceremony entailed the completion of the transition of this submarine from the Northern Fleet to its permanent base at the Pacific Fleet in the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia's far East.

The submarine forces of the Pacific Fleet hosted this assembly at their base in Vilyuchinsk, under the leadership of Admiral Viktor Lean, commander of the Pacific Fleet.

Admiral Lean underscored the significance of the event and was quoted by the press service as saying: “Today is a historic and crucial moment for the Pacific Fleet. The operational capabilities of the Pacific Fleet have augmented, ensuring enhanced military security in the Asia-Pacific region”.

In November 2022, the Generalissimo Suvorov, belonging to the 4th generation and equipped with 16 "Bulava" ballistic missiles, carried out all testing phases, going through multiple sea voyages. The tests were designed to assess the submarine systems under different modes.

Both the enterprise and the ship’s crew have successfully executed their assigned tasks. The ship particularly showcased its capabilities by launching a Bulava ballistic missile from the White Sea at the Kura test site on the Kamchatka Peninsula.

As the second serial ship of the Borei-A project, the Generalissimo Suvorov is set to underpin the Russian Federation’s naval strategic nuclear forces for several forthcoming decades.

Belonging to the fourth generation of nuclear missile submarines, it boasts state-of-the-art missile-torpedo weapon systems, as well as navigational, radiotechnical, and hydroacoustic tools.

Project 955A units are equipped with advanced detection and communication systems, a reduced acoustic signature, and significant structural modifications. These include the addition of mobile rudders and vertical endplates to the hydroplanes for superior maneuverability, and a unique sail geometry.

They are also fitted with hydraulic jets and improved propellers, enabling them to cruise almost silently underwater at nearly 30 knots.

Though initially slated to carry 20 Bulava SLBMs, the 955A is primed to be armed with 16 SLBMs, each carrying 6-10 nuclear warheads, much like the project 955 submarines.

A contract for five modified 955A submarines experienced numerous delays due to price disagreements between the Russian Defence Ministry and the United Shipbuilding Corporation. It was eventually signed on May 28, 2012.

Construction of the maiden 955A submarine, Knyaz Vladimir, began at a ceremony on July 30, 2012, attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Additional project 955A submarines were laid down in 2014, late 2015, and late 2016.

‼️🇷🇺☢️ #Russian submarine Generalissimus Suvorov arrives in Kamchatka

The newest #nuclear-powered missile submarine Generalissimus Suvorov was solemnly welcomed in Kamchatka after completing its inter-fleet sail from the Northern Fleet to the Pacific Fleet. pic.twitter.com/QBPyfjHxxP

— Maimunka News (@MaimunkaNews) October 16, 2023