The Russian Navy’s third Borey-class (Project 955) ballistic missile nuclear submarine, Vladimir Monomakh, has successfully completed first round of sea trials off the White Sea.
Submarine-builder Sevmash was quoted by RIA Novosti as saying that the new-generation nuclear-powered submarine has validated its systems and equipment during the 25-day sea trials.
Earlier this year, Sevmash chief Mikhail Budnichenko said that Vladimir Monomakh is expected to be delivered to the Russian Navy in mid-December.
Due to unsuccessful launch of a Bulava submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) in the White Sea in September, the Russian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has deferred the trials of second and third Borei-class ubmarines, Alexander Nevsky and Vladimir Monomakh, a Russian defence ministry spokesman said.
Following its launch off the White Sea, the SLMB underwent a malfunction in one of its systems during the second minute of the flight.
The Moscow Institute of Thermal Technology-built Bulava missile is designed to replace the R-39UTTH Bark missile for the submarines.
Powered by an OK-650 nuclear reactor, AEU steam turbine, a shaft and propeller, the 170m-long vessel has a hull diameter of 13m, a depth range of 450m and can cruise at a speed of 29k, while accommodating a crew of 107.
Expected to form the core of the country’s strategic submarine fleet, the Borey-class boats will replace the existing Project 941 (NATO Typhoon class) and Project 667 class (Delta-3 and Delta-4) submarines.
The submarine is scheduled to undergo final series of sea trials by end of the year.
Image: Illustration of Russian Navy’s Borey-class submarine. Photo: file image.
