Russia has delayed the launch of a new nuclear-powered multipurpose attack submarine due to technical problems, according to a source in the shipbuilding industry.
The Yasen Class submarine Severodvinsk was originally scheduled to be launched on 7 May 2010, according to rianovosti.
The source was quoted by rianovosti as saying that the submarine would be floated out and undergosea trials in 2011.
Yasen Class nuclear submarines are specifically designed to launch a variety of long-range cruise missiles with nuclear warheads up to 3,100 miles, and can effectively engage submarines, surface warships and land-based targets.
The vessel carries 24 cruise missiles, including the 3M51 Alfa SLCM, the SS-NX-26 Oniks SLCM or the SS-N-21 Granat/Sampson SLCM.
The submarine is also equipped with eight torpedo launchers, and mines and anti-ship missiles such as SS-N-16 Stallion.
The Severodvinsk is expected to enter service with the Russian Navy by early 2011.
