Russia Launches Nuclear Submarine Khabarovsk, Capable of Carrying Poseidon Underwater Drone

Russia has launched its newest nuclear-powered submarine, Khabarovsk, designed to carry the underwater nuclear drone Poseidon, often referred to in global media as a “doomsday drone.” The submarine was ceremonially launched on 1 November 2025 at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk, a key centre of Russia’s naval shipbuilding. The launch is significant as it marks a major step in Russia’s efforts to strengthen its strategic naval deterrence and modernise its nuclear forces amid rising global security tensions.

Background: Russia’s Strategic Submarine Programme

Nuclear submarines form a critical part of Russia’s nuclear triad, which includes land-based missiles, air-based strategic bombers, and sea-based nuclear platforms. These submarines are valued for their stealth, endurance, and second-strike capability, allowing a country to maintain deterrence even in the event of a major conflict.

The Khabarovsk is part of Russia’s next-generation underwater systems programme and is closely linked to the development of the Poseidon nuclear-powered underwater drone. Poseidon is designed for long-range, deep-sea operations and is intended to bypass traditional missile defence systems.

Key Developments at the Launch

The submarine was launched by Andrei Belousov, Russia’s Defence Minister, during a formal ceremony. The event was attended by Alexander Moiseyev, Chief of the Russian Navy, along with senior naval officers and shipbuilding officials.

Addressing the gathering, the Defence Minister described the launch as an important milestone for the Russian Navy. He stated that submarines equipped with advanced underwater weapons and robotic systems would help Russia ensure the security of its maritime borders and maintain strategic balance.

Poseidon Drone: Capabilities and Role

The Poseidon underwater drone is a nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed system capable of travelling intercontinental distances underwater. According to available reports, it can operate at great depths and high speeds, making detection and interception extremely difficult.

Military analysts note that Poseidon is intended to:

• Strengthen Russia’s strategic deterrence
• Bypass existing missile defence systems
• Serve as a second-strike weapon in extreme scenarios

While Russian officials describe the system as a defensive deterrent, its development has raised concerns internationally due to its destructive potential, especially against coastal infrastructure.

Significance for Russia’s Defence Strategy

The launch of Khabarovsk highlights Russia’s continued focus on modernising its nuclear and naval capabilities. It reflects a broader global trend where major powers are investing in next-generation weapons systems, including autonomous and underwater platforms.

For Russia, such systems are seen as essential to maintaining strategic parity with other nuclear-armed states. Officials have consistently stated that these developments are aimed at safeguarding national security rather than initiating conflict.

International and Security Implications

The deployment of platforms like Khabarovsk is likely to attract close attention from other major powers. It may influence global arms control discussions, particularly those related to nuclear weapons, underwater systems, and autonomous military technologies.

Security experts note that the growing use of unmanned and nuclear-powered underwater weapons adds new complexity to international security and raises questions about future arms regulation frameworks.