In 2013, it was announced that both boats would be decommissioned and scrapped between 20, a process that indeed took place. Production of R-39 missiles had ceased, and existing missiles were gradually destroyed due to nuclear weapons reduction treaties. Two main factors contributed to their inactivity: the lack of ballistic missiles for these submarines and funding constraints. The remaining Typhoon-class submarines, Severstal and Arkhangelsk, went to reserve in 20, respectively. This decision went against the Co-operative Threat Reduction Program. By 2002, only two such submarines remained in active service, primarily for testing purposes related to the R-39M Grom and new Bulava submarine-launched ballistic missiles. Retirement and Decommissioningīetween 19, three Akula-class boats were decommissioned, and these submarines were subsequently scrapped between 20. The same type of nuclear reactor, in slightly modified forms, was used in several other Soviet submarines, demonstrating the design’s success. These reactors, designed in the 1970s, represented a more modern and safer alternative to previous Soviet submarine reactors. The Typhoon-class submarines were powered by a pair of OK-650VV nuclear reactors, each with a rating of 190 MW. Nuclear Powerhouse of Project 941 Akula submarines However, the development of these upgraded missiles faced a series of testing failures, ultimately leading to the project’s abandonment. Originally, the Akula class submarines were intended to be retrofitted with the improved R-39M Grom (Western reporting name SS-N-28) ballistic missiles. Each submarine was equipped with 20 of these intercontinental ballistic missiles, capable of carrying up to 10 warheads. Known as the R-39 Rif (Western reporting name SS-N-20 Sturgeon), this missile allowed the Typhoons to launch attacks from within the Arctic Circle and strike targets anywhere in the continental United States. To arm this class of submarines, the development of a fifth-generation submarine-launched ballistic missile began in 1973. These submarines were intended to serve the Soviet Northern Fleet, particularly within the Arctic Circle. The first Typhoon-class submarine was laid down in 1976 at Severodvinsk and commissioned in 1980, achieving full operational status in 1981. This reinforced construction also allowed them to navigate through thin ice with ease, making them difficult to track and engage under the ice shelf. The Typhoon-class submarines were specifically designed to operate within the challenging environment of the Arctic ice pack.įeaturing a unique double-hull design comprising two separate pressure hulls joined by a single outer covering, they offered enhanced protection against anti-submarine weapons.
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