Russia Launches Nuclear Submarine to Carry ‘Doomsday’ Poseidon Drone

Russia has launched its newest nuclear-powered submarine, “Khabarovsk”, designed to carry the formidable ‘Poseidon’ nuclear-capable underwater drone, dubbed the “doomsday missile.” The launch marks a major step in Moscow’s ongoing expansion of its underwater nuclear deterrent capability amid rising global military tensions.

Launch Ceremony at Sevmash Shipyards

The “Khabarovsk” submarine was launched at the Sevmash shipyards in Severodvinsk during a ceremony attended by Russian Defence Minister Andrei Belousov, Naval Chief Admiral Alexander Moiseyev, and top defence officials. In his address, Belousov called the event a “significant milestone” for Russia’s naval strength. Sevmash, notably, is the same facility that once retrofitted India’s INS “Vikramaditya” aircraft carrier.

Strategic Role and Design Features

Developed by the Rubin Central Design Bureau of Marine Engineering, “Khabarovsk” is a heavy nuclear-powered missile cruiser designed to deploy advanced underwater weapons and robotic systems. The Russian Defence Ministry said the submarine will “address challenges in securing Russia’s maritime borders and safeguarding national interests across global waters.” Its design enables it to carry Poseidon drones — autonomous, nuclear-powered torpedoes with unprecedented range and destructive potential.

Poseidon Drone: Russia’s Underwater Superweapon

The Poseidon underwater drone, reportedly tested successfully last week, is capable of travelling intercontinental distances at great depths and speeds exceeding conventional submarines and torpedoes. The drone is powered by a miniaturised nuclear reactor, described by President Vladimir Putin as “100 times smaller than that of a strategic submarine.” Deputy Security Council Chairman Dmitry Medvedev referred to Poseidon as a “Doomsday missile,” highlighting its potential to devastate coastal regions through massive underwater explosions.

Exam Oriented Facts

• The “Khabarovsk” nuclear submarine was launched at Sevmash shipyards in Severodvinsk.
• It is designed by Rubin Design Bureau to carry Poseidon nuclear-capable drones.
• Poseidon is a nuclear-powered underwater drone capable of intercontinental range and extreme depth travel.
• President Putin confirmed a successful Poseidon test in October 2025.

Geopolitical and Defence Implications

Analysts view the “Khabarovsk”-Poseidon system as part of Russia’s broader strategy to enhance second-strike nuclear capabilities and deter maritime threats. The introduction of autonomous, nuclear-propelled underwater drones marks a new phase in strategic deterrence technology. As tensions persist with NATO and the West, Russia’s latest submarine launch underscores its intent to maintain technological superiority beneath the world’s oceans.