Yasen-class (Project 885)

The Yasen class, designated Project 885 and Project 885M (NATO reporting name Severodvinsk), is a series of Russian nuclear-powered attack submarines designed by the Malakhit Marine Engineering Bureau and built at the Sevmash shipyard. Design work began in 1977 as a successor to the Akula and Oscar II classes. Construction of the lead vessel, Severodvinsk, commenced in 1993, though financial constraints in the 1990s delayed its completion until 2013. The design later transitioned to the upgraded Yasen-M variant, which is shorter than the lead ship and incorporates updated systems. The class is intended to be succeeded by the Laika class.

The class utilizes a multipurpose platform for hunter-killer and cruise missile roles. The hull is constructed from low-magnetic steel and uses a single-hull design for most of its length. It is the first Russian submarine class to feature a spherical bow sonar array, which necessitates the placement of slanted torpedo tubes aft of the bow. Propulsion is provided by a nuclear reactor that utilizes natural circulation in its cooling loop to minimize noise. The interior systems feature a high degree of automation. Armament includes a vertical launch system capable of carrying anti-ship, anti-submarine, and land-attack cruise missiles, as well as torpedoes and mines. A rescue pod is located in the sail.

The Russian Navy commissioned the lead ship in 2014, followed by the first Yasen-M unit in 2021. These vessels are assigned to the Northern and Pacific Fleets. Operational history includes deployments in the Atlantic Ocean and test launches of Zircon missiles from surfaced and underwater positions. Several units remain under construction or are undergoing sea trials at the Sevmash facility.