Russia’s modernised nuclear submarine begins trials

ST PETERSBURG - A Russian advanced nuclear submarine has started sea trials following its lengthy modernisation at the Zvezdochka shipyard in northern Russia, the company said.

The overhaul of Delta-IV class K-18 Karelia submarine, which started in 2004, included noise reduction, improved tracking capabilities and enhanced survivability. The submarine has been equipped with 16 Sineva RSM-54 missiles.

The submarine could join Russia’s Northern Fleet by the end of 2009, the shipyard authorities said Wednesday.

Four other Delta-IV class submarines - the K-51 Verkhoturye, the K-84 Yekaterinburg, the K-114 Tula and the K-117 Bryansk - have also undergone a similar overhauling. The Russian Navy has a total of seven Delta-IV class submarines and all are deployed in the Northern Fleet.

“The Delta-IV class submarines are the core of the naval component of the Russian nuclear triad at present. After the modernisation, the subs will be able to remain in service for another 10 years,” Zvezdochka said.

–RIA Novosti