The most advanced Yasen-Class Russian nuclear submarines are now receiving hypersonic missiles. Specifically, these nuclear subs are getting the Zircon model.
The latest enhancement hints that the Russian government is boosting the country's naval technology and capabilities.
Russian Nuclear Submarines Receive Hypersonic Zircon Missiles
According to CNBC's latest report, United Shipbuilding Corporation Chief Executive Officer Alexei Rakhmanov confirmed the nuclear submarine enhancement via an interview with the RIA states agency on Aug. 14.
The official said that the integration of Zircon hypersonic missiles into nuclear subs is already underway.
"Multi-purpose nuclear submarines of the Yasen-M project will... be equipped with the Zircon missile system on a regular basis," said the CEO via Reuters.
These Yasen-class submarines (aka Project 885M) are nuclear-powered cruise missile subs that were built to replace the Soviet-era nuclear attack submarine models.
This is a part of Russia's plan to modernize its army and fleet.
Meanwhile, the Zircon missile is a hypersonic sea-based rocket that can travel at several times the speed of sound. This missile's range can reach 900 km (560 miles).
Because of its advanced features, the Zircon hypersonic missiles are not easily countered by Russia's enemies.
The latest nuclear submarine enhancement was confirmed after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that the country will start its Zircon missile mass supplies.
Earlier this 2023, Putin said that this is a part of Russia's effort to enhance its nuclear forces.
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Other Details of Russia's Nuclear Sub Enhancement
Rakhmanov explained that the latest nuclear submarine enhancement of Russia was based on the decision of the Ministry of Defense.
The USC leader said that Russia's Ministry of Defense decided to regularly arm the Yasen-class subs with the Zircon missile system.
The nuclear submarine improvement will be carried out in accordance with the Russian Defense Ministry's plan.
Rakhmanov said that this will be the case during the manufacturing and operational phases of the hypersonic missile-equipped nuclear submarines.
The combination of the Yasen-class submarines' capability to target land-based targets and the Zircon missile's fast and long-range features are considered a matter of significant apprehension for Wester military officials and analysts.
If you want to learn more about Russia's latest naval technology effort, you can click this link.
