Russia is making significant strides in modernizing its Arctic fleet, with plans to deploy three new Borei-class nuclear submarines to the Northern Fleet near Murmansk by the end of the decade. These state-of-the-art vessels, measuring 170 meters long and 13.5 meters wide, will each carry up to 16 Bulava ballistic missiles, reinforcing Russia’s strategic defense capabilities.
Strengthening Submarine Power
The Borei-class submarines, first commissioned in 2013, currently have seven operational units. In addition to expanding this fleet, Russia is also set to introduce three Yasen-class nuclear-powered attack submarines, known for their advanced cruise missile capabilities.
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The Yasen class, operational since 2013, is equipped with Onyx, Caliber, and Zircon missiles, some of which have nuclear capabilities.
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These submarines can reach speeds of up to 28 knots and are designed for stealth operations, making them effective in surface ship warfare.
Arctic Militarization: A Broader Strategy
This expansion aligns with Russia’s long-term Arctic militarization strategy, involving modernization of military bases and the construction of new ones along its 14,000-mile Arctic coastline.
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Russia operates at least 12 Arctic military bases, including Ushakovskoye Base and Nagurskoye Air Base, which feature trefoil-shaped complexes.
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Upgraded airstrips, such as the newly paved Temp Air Base on Kotelny Island, can now accommodate heavy bombers with nuclear capabilities year-round.
Combat-Ready Icebreakers and Patrol Vessels
Russia is also reinforcing its naval presence in the Arctic by integrating combat icebreakers and ice-class patrol vessels into its fleet.
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Two armed icebreakers, part of the Project 23550 series, are expected to join the fleet in 2025 and 2026. Weighing 8,500 tons, they provide offshore patrol capabilities comparable to Norwegian and Danish naval vessels.
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The Project 21180 icebreaker series remains active, with an additional Project 21180M vessel scheduled for launch by 2027.
Geopolitical Significance
Russia’s military expansion in the Arctic highlights the strategic importance of the region, as global powers compete for control over vast untapped resources beneath the melting ice caps. This aggressive modernization strengthens Russia’s defensive and offensive capabilities, making the Arctic a key geopolitical battleground for the coming decades.
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Source: FAN
