Overview
- The nuclear-powered Khabarovsk was launched at the Sevmash yard in Severodvinsk in a ceremony attended by Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, who said the vessel now proceeds to sea trials.
- Officials and reports describe the boat as the first platform specifically designed to carry the nuclear-capable Poseidon underwater drone, with capacity commonly cited at six or more units.
- Russian statements and state media assert Poseidon can travel at high speed and depth over very long ranges and could contaminate coastal areas with a radioactive surge, claims not independently verified.
- President Vladimir Putin recently said Russia launched Poseidon from a carrier submarine and activated its reactor, following a reported test of the nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile days earlier.
- Coverage notes international concern, including reports that President Donald Trump ordered renewed U.S. nuclear weapons tests in response to rivals’ programs.