The Russian Navy announced its intention to commission 21 submarines by the end of 2026, including the Yasen-M class submarine named Perm. This vessel is the first nuclear-powered submarine in the world to be equipped with the Zircon hypersonic missile system at launch. Admiral Alexander Moiseyev shared this information during a formal meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, where he outlined the ambitious naval expansion plans. The Perm is classified as the fifth unit of the Yasen-M series and the sixth in the wider Project 885/885M submarine initiative. Construction of the submarine began at the Sevmash shipyard in July 2016, with its official launch occurring in March 2025. Since then, it has completed all necessary final sea trials and system checks, making it ready for deployment.
The deployment of the Zircon hypersonic missile system represents a significant technological milestone for the Russian Navy. This weapon system is designed to strike long-range, high-value targets with extreme precision and speed, giving the Yasen-M a distinct strategic advantage in undersea warfare. Moiseyev also highlighted that the Russian Navy will continue working on other critical projects, such as the completion of the nuclear cruiser Admiral Nakhimov and the construction of the Leopard submarine. These developments indicate Russia’s commitment to strengthening its naval capabilities and expanding its undersea forces.
U.S. Submarine Commissioned
The U.S. Navy officially commissioned the 26th Virginia-class submarine, the USS Idaho, on April 25 at Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Connecticut. The ceremony marked a significant addition to the fleet, as the new vessel is part of the Block IV production series of the Virginia-class program. Block IV submarines are equipped with updated technologies and design changes aimed at reducing maintenance costs and improving operational availability over the life of the submarine. These improvements are designed to enhance the fleet's readiness and efficiency, allowing submarines to be deployed for longer periods with fewer interruptions.
Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao highlighted the importance of the USS Idaho during the commissioning ceremony. “The USS Idaho joins the fleet ready to respond in any ocean and at any time,” Cao said, emphasizing the submarine's readiness to perform its duties wherever needed. Virginia-class submarines, such as the USS Idaho, are approximately 115 meters in length and displace around 7,800 tons. They are built with nuclear propulsion and are equipped with advanced systems for stealth, surveillance, and undersea warfare.
Comparing Submarine Programs
The Yasen-M program and the Virginia-class initiative represent two distinct approaches to the modernization of nuclear-powered attack submarines. Russia's focus with the Yasen-M lies in long-range strike capabilities, particularly through the integration of the Zircon hypersonic missile system. This gives the Russian Navy a powerful tool for targeting distant adversaries and disrupting enemy operations. In contrast, the U.S. Navy's Virginia-class submarines emphasize sustained availability and versatility. The Block IV upgrades are specifically designed to increase the time the submarines can spend at sea and reduce the need for frequent maintenance, thereby improving their operational effectiveness.
Russia is still actively working on expanding its Yasen-M submarine fleet, with additional units including Kazan, Novosibirsk, Krasnoyarsk, and Arkhangelsk at various stages of construction. These submarines will further enhance the Russian Navy's undersea capabilities, especially in regions where long-range deterrence is essential. The U.S. Navy, meanwhile, is continuing its production of Virginia-class submarines through successive blocks, each incorporating new improvements to meet evolving mission requirements. The comparison between the Yasen-M and Virginia-class programs highlights how both nations are pursuing their undersea strategies in different ways, with each program reflecting the broader goals of their respective navies.