Despite the heavy toll of the Ukraine war, Vladimir Putin is pressing ahead with long-term naval expansion. Russia has laid the keel for its ninth Yasen-M nuclear attack submarine, named Murmansk, signalling Moscow’s intent to challenge NATO beneath the waves. The vessel will be armed with Kalibr cruise missiles, Oniks anti-ship missiles, and Zircon hypersonic missiles. With multiple Yasen-M submarines already under construction and NATO warning of escalating Russian undersea threats, analysts suggest Europe’s strategic contest may increasingly play out beneath the ocean’s surface.
In-Depth:
Even as the Ukraine war drains resources, Vladimir Putin is betting on the future. Russia has laid the keel for its ninth Yasen-M nuclear attack submarine, signalling long-term plans for undersea rivalry with NATO. Armed with Kalibr, Oniks and Zircon hypersonic missiles, the new Murmansk submarine highlights Moscow’s determination to strengthen its strategic fleet despite wartime pressures. With more Yasen-M boats under construction and NATO warning of growing Russian threats, analysts state the battle for Europe may increasingly shift beneath the seas rather than on land.
