Russia has officially launched its latest nuclear-powered submarine, Perm, marking a significant development in the country’s naval capabilities. The launch ceremony took place at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk, a major shipbuilding facility known for constructing Russia’s most advanced submarines.
A New Addition to Russia’s Submarine Fleet
Perm is the fifth vessel of the Yasen-M class, an upgraded version of the original Yasen-class submarines. These submarines are designed to operate with high stealth, advanced weaponry, and improved automation systems, making them a key component of the Russian Navy’s underwater fleet.
Perm was laid down on July 29, 2016, as part of Russia’s ongoing efforts to modernize its naval forces. Following its launch, the submarine is expected to undergo extensive testing, including sea trials, to ensure its operational readiness.
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Based on the timeline of previous Yasen-M submarines, the commissioning of Perm into active service is projected within the next two years. This aligns with the commissioning of its predecessor, Arkhangelsk, which was launched in November 2023 and joined the Russian fleet in January 2025.
The Yasen-M submarines are considered some of the most advanced in the Russian Navy. They feature a nuclear propulsion system, allowing them to stay submerged for extended periods, making them highly suitable for long-range operations.
These submarines are also equipped with improved sonar and radar systems, enhancing their ability to detect enemy vessels while remaining hidden from detection. Their ability to operate in deep waters provides strategic advantages, allowing them to evade enemy surveillance and strike targets from a concealed position.
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Arming the Fleet with Hypersonic Missiles
A key feature of Perm is its ability to carry and launch the 3M22 Tsirkon hypersonic cruise missile. This marks the first time a Yasen-M class submarine has been specifically designed to serve as a dedicated carrier for this advanced weapon.
The Tsirkon missile is known for its high speed, reaching up to Mach 9, and its capability to strike both naval and land-based targets. The addition of this missile system significantly enhances the combat potential of the submarine, making it a strategic asset for the Russian Navy.
The Yasen-M submarines are also equipped with a variety of other advanced weaponry, including Kalibr and Oniks cruise missiles. These weapons provide the submarine with the ability to engage enemy warships, submarines, and coastal installations with precision strikes.
The Kalibr missile system, in particular, has been used in combat operations and is known for its long-range capability. Meanwhile, the Oniks missile is designed for high-speed anti-ship missions, making it a crucial component of Russia’s naval firepower.
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Beyond missiles, Yasen-M submarines also possess modernized torpedo systems. These torpedoes can engage enemy submarines and surface ships, adding another layer of versatility to their combat capabilities. With the combination of nuclear propulsion, stealth technology, and advanced weaponry, Perm represents a formidable addition to the Russian Navy.
Expansion of the Yasen-M Fleet
The launch of Perm is part of a broader Russian naval program aimed at expanding the Yasen-M fleet. In total, Russia plans to build nine submarines of this class. Four of these—Kazan, Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, and Arkhangelsk—have already been commissioned into service with either the Northern or Pacific Fleets. Meanwhile, Perm, Ulyanovsk, Voronezh, and Vladivostok are at various stages of construction. The ninth submarine, Bratsk, is currently in the planning phase.
Each new Yasen-M submarine follows a structured development process, beginning with the keel-laying, followed by construction, launching, sea trials, and ultimately, commissioning. Arkhangelsk, for example, was laid down in August 2016, launched in November 2023, and began sea trials in June 2024 before joining the fleet in early 2025.
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If Perm follows a similar timeline, it is expected to be ready for deployment within 1.5 to 2 years.
With the Yasen-M class, Russia aims to strengthen its naval presence, particularly in the Arctic and Pacific regions. The addition of these submarines ensures that the Russian Navy remains equipped with state-of-the-art underwater warfare capabilities. The country continues to invest in its naval programs, focusing on enhancing both strategic deterrence and operational effectiveness in different maritime zones.
Additionally, the Yasen-M submarines contribute to Russia’s goal of maintaining a strong underwater defense system. Their ability to operate autonomously for long durations allows for effective patrolling and surveillance operations. These submarines are designed to counter potential threats in open waters, ensuring that Russia’s maritime borders remain secure.
The construction and deployment of the Yasen-M fleet reflect Russia’s broader military strategy to develop next-generation defense technologies. The launch of Perm highlights the continued evolution of the country’s submarine capabilities, reinforcing its position as a dominant naval force. The expansion of this fleet ensures that Russia remains at the forefront of underwater military advancements, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining a formidable navy.
