Russia Launches New Diesel-Electric Submarine “Yakutsk” for Pacific Fleet
On October 11, 2024, Russia celebrated the launch of its latest diesel-electric submarine, the "Yakutsk," at the Admiralty Shipyards in St. Petersburg. This event marked a significant milestone for the Russian Navy, as the vessel is the sixth and final addition to the Project 636.3 series, a fleet designed to bolster the Pacific Fleet's operational strength in the Asia-Pacific region. The "Yakutsk" is not just another submarine; it represents a culmination of years of advanced naval engineering and strategic focus on enhancing Russia's maritime presence.
The Project 636.3 submarines, also known as the "Varshavyanka" class, have earned a reputation for their exceptional stealth capabilities and combat readiness. They are designed primarily for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare but are versatile enough to handle a variety of missions. Equipped with advanced sonar systems and powerful weaponry, including Kalibr cruise missiles, these submarines are considered one of the quietest in the world, earning the nickname "Black Holes" by NATO due to their low acoustic signatures.
Vice Admiral Igor Mukhmetshin, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, underscored the importance of this launch, noting that the “Yakutsk” completes the series of six submarines aimed at strengthening Russia’s Pacific Fleet. According to him, the Project 636.3 submarines have consistently proven their reliability and effectiveness in different operational environments, making them a critical asset for the navy. The launch, which he referred to as a triumph of Russian engineering, is seen as a significant boost to Russia’s naval capabilities, particularly in the contested waters of the Asia-Pacific.
The "Yakutsk" was first laid down in August 2021 under the supervision of President Vladimir Putin. This construction was part of a broader initiative to modernize the Russian Navy’s submarine forces and extend their reach in strategically vital regions. Former Navy Commander-in-Chief, Vladimir Korolev, who now serves as an advisor to the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC), praised the submarine's launch, calling it the vessel’s "second birthday." Korolev, along with other officials, highlighted the impressive design and combat potential of the submarine, crediting the Rubin Design Bureau for its engineering expertise and the Admiralty Shipyards for the flawless execution of the project.
Following its launch, "Yakutsk" will undergo several phases of testing and outfitting. It will first undergo pier-side outfitting, followed by mooring trials to ensure all systems are functional while docked. This will be followed by sea trials, where the submarine will be tested in various maritime conditions. Once these trials are successfully completed, the "Yakutsk" will be delivered to the Pacific Fleet, where it is expected to play a crucial role in projecting Russian naval power across the Asia-Pacific region.
The Project 636.3 submarines are particularly prized for their stealth. Built with state-of-the-art noise-reduction technology, they can operate undetected in hostile environments, making them ideal for reconnaissance and combat missions. They are equipped with advanced sonar that enables them to track enemy vessels at great distances, while their Kalibr cruise missiles allow them to strike targets with pinpoint accuracy from long ranges. These capabilities make the “Yakutsk” a formidable tool for Russia’s military ambitions, particularly in contested waters where naval superiority is key.
The launch of the “Yakutsk” marks the conclusion of an ambitious construction program for the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet. With the vessel’s advanced systems and stealth capabilities, Russia is sending a clear signal that it intends to maintain a strong naval presence in strategic regions, particularly as geopolitical tensions continue to rise in the Asia-Pacific. The “Yakutsk” is not just another submarine; it is a testament to Russia’s commitment to advancing its military technology and asserting its influence on the global stage.
