The Russians Made A Faux Pas With The "Lada" Submarine

• 8.10.2026, 12:49

After testing, it became clear that the ship did not meet the fleet's requirements.

Russian submarines of the “Lada” class were designed as a quieter and more advanced replacement for the “Kilo” class submarines, which the West dubbed “black holes” due to their low detectability. But the history of the new project began with a major setback, writes 19FortyFive.

The lead submarine, the “St. Petersburg,” was laid down back in 1997, but it did not enter service until 14 years later. After testing, it became clear that the submarine did not meet the navy’s requirements. “The submarine is completely incapable of conducting combat operations in a number of key areas,” stated a representative of the Russian Navy.

The program was then effectively put on hold for nearly ten years. The design had to be significantly revised, and the “St. Petersburg” itself was used as a test platform. In 2024, the submarine was decommissioned and sent to be scrapped.

The upgraded “Lada” class submarines were equipped with more advanced hydroacoustic systems, silent propulsion, and the “Lithium” automated combat system. The displacement of such a submarine is approximately 1,765 metric tons, and it has a crew of 35. Its armament includes six 533-mm torpedo tubes, through which “Kalibr” and “Onyx” missiles can be launched.

The main problem with the project was the lack of an air-independent propulsion system. Such a system would allow the submarine to remain submerged longer and reduce its noise level. Russia had planned to install such a system but never did so due to technical problems.