Russia Advances Poseidon Torpedo Deployment Aboard Khabarovsk Submarine
Russia is moving towards the deployment of the Poseidon nuclear torpedo on its Khabarovsk submarine, intensifying underwater nuclear competition. This development raises significant concerns about US undersea defense capabilities and strategic deterrence frameworks.
The Khabarovsk submarine, under construction in Severodvinsk, is designed to carry up to six Poseidon nuclear torpedoes, contributing to Russia's strategic arms capabilities. This submarine integrates features from existing Borei-class submarines and aims to enhance stealth in underwater warfare.
The Poseidon torpedo, capable of speeds around 70 knots and powered by a miniature nuclear reactor, is intended for long-range strikes on coastal cities and military infrastructure. Russia plans to produce 30 Poseidon torpedoes for deployment across four submarines, reinforcing its second-strike capabilities through the Perimeter nuclear command system. The absence of a long-range US anti-submarine weapon heightens vulnerabilities against this emerging threat, potentially destabilizing current arms control frameworks.
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