Russia's two nuclear-powered submarines to undergoing sea trials in mid-2014

The Russian Navy's two new nuclear-powered submarines are scheduled to commence sea trials in mid-2014, the country's northern Sevmash shipyard has said.

The two boats, including the Borei-class Vladimir Monomakh nuclear-missile submarine and the Yasen-class Severodvinsk attack submarine, will be the newest additions to Russia's fleet.

"Once navigation at sea opens this summer, the Vladimir Monomakh and Severodvinsk submarines will begin tests," Sevmash said. "Operations on all Sevmash nuclear submarines are run under the control of the leadership of the Russian Navy."

The northern fleet commander admiral Vladimir Korolev said on Sunday that the Vladimir Monomakh will conduct a test launch of the navy's new Bulava nuclear-capable ballistic missile before entering service later this year.

"Once navigation at sea opens this summer, the Vladimir Monomakh and Severodvinsk submarines will begin tests."

The Yasen-class Novosibirsk submarine has completed hull work and is due to start hydraulic testing while the Knyaz Vladimir, the next Borei-class submarine, is currently preparing for the installation of large equipment, Sevmash added.

Meanwhile, the Russian Navy's first Borei-class ballistic missile submarine, Yury Dolgoruky, is expected to enter service this year after taking weaponry on board, a senior Russian Navy commander said.

The northern fleet forces commander rear admiral Alexander Moiseev said: "Upon receiving new weapons on board this year, the Yury Dolgoruky submarine will be ready to perform its duties."
Currently, the Russian Defence Ministry is performing a massive rearmament for the navy and air force as part of its efforts to modernise.

A total of 40 new warships and auxiliary vessels, including a variety of surface ships of various classes and nuclear submarines, are expected to be delivered this year.