Overview
- The Khabarovsk was launched at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk in a ceremony led by Defense Minister Andrey Belousov, who described it as a heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser for underwater weapons and robotic systems.
- Russian state outlets present the boat as the first purpose-built carrier for the nuclear-powered, nuclear-capable Poseidon underwater drone, with sea trials pending before commissioning to the Pacific Fleet.
- New satellite imagery published this week shows the submarine’s full profile after official footage revealed only its stern, and independent analysts estimate a length of roughly 135–140 meters with Borei-class design similarities.
- President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday lauded the Poseidon and the Burevestnik nuclear-powered cruise missile after announcing recent tests, while outside assessments note that detailed performance claims remain largely unverified.
- Program plans point to a small Poseidon-capable force with Belgorod already delivered, Khabarovsk now launched, and a third submarine reported for around 2027, with basing in Russia’s Far East reported by state and specialist outlets.