Russia's Mysterious Nuclear-Powered Submarine 'Khabarovsk' Reportedly Begins Sea Trials

The Russian Navy has reportedly begun sea trials for its new nuclear-powered submarine 'Khabarovsk', which is designed to carry nuclear torpedoes.

According to local observers, the submarine was spotted leaving the dock in Severodvinsk, accompanied by a tugboat and a frigate, the Almirante Gorshkov.

If confirmed, the Khabarovsk would be a significant addition to the Russian Navy's capabilities, as it would be the first submarine specifically designed to carry nuclear torpedoes. The submarine is part of the Proyecto 09851 series and is believed to be a 'cruise missile nuclear-powered cruiser' designed by the Ministry of Defence.

The Khabarovsk is reportedly a large submarine, with an estimated displacement of 10,000 tons and a length of 135 meters. It is believed to be equipped with a single OK-650V nuclear reactor, which would allow it to maintain a high level of stealth.

The submarine's design is similar to the Borei-class submarines, but it lacks the section for storing ballistic missiles. Instead, it is equipped with a smaller number of conventional torpedo tubes.

The Khabarovsk's primary role is to carry the Poseidon nuclear torpedoes, which would make it the second submarine in the Russian Navy to be capable of carrying such weapons, after the Belgorod (Proyecto 09852). The Poseidon torpedoes are believed to be designed for strategic disuasión, with a range of up to 10,000 kilometers and a speed of up to 100 knots.

However, some analysts have questioned the capabilities of the Poseidon torpedoes, suggesting that their range and speed may be exaggerated. The torpedoes are reportedly 20 meters long, with a diameter of 1.8 meters and a weight of around 110 tons.

The following table summarizes the estimated characteristics of the Poseidon torpedoes:

| Characteristic | Value | | --- | --- | | Length | 20 meters | | Diameter | 1.8 meters | | Weight | 110 tons | | Range | 10,000 kilometers | | Speed | 100 knots | | Yield | 2 megatons |

It's worth noting that these estimates are based on independent analysis and may be subject to exaggeration. The Poseidon torpedoes are believed to be designed for attacking coastal cities and strategic targets in the sea.

The Khabarovsk's sea trials are a significant development for the Russian Navy, and could potentially be a game-changer for the country's military capabilities. However, more information is needed to confirm the details of the submarine and its capabilities.