Russia Commissions Fifth Borei-A Class Nuclear Submarine

The Russian Navy has officially commissioned the strategic nuclear-powered submarine Knyaz Pozharskiy, a Borei-A class vessel capable of carrying intercontinental ballistic missiles.

Russian media reported that a handover ceremony had taken place on Thursday, July 24, at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk.

Knyaz Pozharskiy is the fifth submarine built under the upgraded Project 955A and the 142nd nuclear submarine constructed at Sevmash.

The vessel was laid down in December 2016 and removed from the boathouse in February 2024. It has since undergone an extended period of outfitting and sea trials, which it has successfully completed.

Submarines under the Borei-A program typically take about seven years to build. Sevmash is currently constructing several boats in parallel, allowing for faster deliveries. Alexander III, another Borei-A submarine, was commissioned in November 2023.

Compared with the original Borei design, the Borei-A variant features upgrades to the hull, bow and sail sections, reducing acoustic signature and vibration. Launch systems for ballistic missiles have also been enhanced.

Like other submarines in the 955/955A series, Knyaz Pozharskiy carries 16 solid-fuel Bulava intercontinental ballistic missiles and 533 mm torpedo tubes.

Russia is already preparing a new generation under the Borei-AM project, with the first two submarines ordered in 2024. While total numbers have not been disclosed, plans call for at least two boats for the Pacific Fleet and four for the Northern Fleet.

The new submarines are intended to maintain Russia’s strategic nuclear deterrent and replace aging Project 667BDRM vessels. Construction timelines for the next class are expected to be accelerated.