(MENAFN) Russia is increasing its naval operations in the Pacific region, with plans to base additional nuclear submarines in the area by 2024, according to state-linked Tass agency. While the location of the bases has not been disclosed, Russia already has a naval base at Vladivostok and an existing Pacific Fleet base that can host nuclear submarines on the Kamchatka Peninsula.
Russia has nuclear submarines that can stay submerged for months, including new Borey class vessels, at least three of which are scheduled for deployment in the Pacific region. The Borey class can carry 16 submarine-launched Bulava ballistic missiles, each of which can carry six 140 megatonne nuclear warheads.
The bases could also house submarines capable of launching a nuclear-capable drone torpedo, such as the Poseidon torpedo, which is around 24 metres long and has been described as a nuclear-armed drone that relies on nuclear-powered propulsion, enabling it to reach targets thousands of kilometres away from its launching point.
Little is known about the Poseidon's warhead, but experts say it could have a yield of two megatonnes, which is around 100 times the destructive power of the bomb dropped on Nagasaki. The torpedoes are being developed for deployment on the Belgorod and Khabarovsk nuclear submarines.
The move by Russia to increase its naval presence in the Pacific region is a cause for concern, given the potential for the deployment of nuclear weapons in the area. It also highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Russia and the United States, as well as concerns about the broader strategic competition between major powers in the region.
The international community needs to remain vigilant to these developments and work to promote stability and cooperation in the region. This includes encouraging dialogue and cooperation between Russia and other countries in the region, as well as supporting efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and reduce the risk of conflict.
Overall, the deployment of additional nuclear submarines by Russia in the Pacific region underscores the need for continued efforts to promote peace, security, and disarmament in the region and beyond.
MENAFN28032023000045012476ID1105881452
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.