Russian Khabarovsk submarine conducts sea trials in the White Sea

The Russian submarine Khabarovsk, a 10,000-ton vessel designed to carry up to six Poseidon nuclear-armed torpedoes, has entered the White Sea for its first series of sea trials. The deployment, reported during the week of August 25, 2026, marks the first time this stealth vessel has been active at sea, with Moscow reportedly intending to test its advanced weapon systems.

The Poseidon torpedoes are capable of reaching depths of approximately 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) and have an operational range exceeding 6,000 miles (nearly 10,000 kilometers). Analysts suggest these weapons could cause massive underwater explosions, potentially resulting in coastal tsunamis and significant radiological contamination. The vessel's capabilities have raised security concerns in Britain, as subsea oil and gas infrastructure in the region lies within the operational depth of the submarine.

This development occurs amid heightened tensions surrounding the ongoing war in Ukraine. The submarine's debut coincides with a recent commitment by the new British Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, to increase the supply of drones to Ukraine, a move that has been met with continued hostility from the Kremlin.