Video: Russian subs conduct “deep penetration” missions

The UK’s Daily Mirror has reported that Russian nuclear-powered attack submarines have been conducting “deep penetration” missions in an apparent bid to enter the Atlantic undetected.

The Borei-class subs are capable of carrying next-generation hypersonic Zircon 3M22 missiles which can travel at 2.7km per second and against which there is thought to be no defence.

Working at depths approaching the limit for attack submarines, the Borei-class subs have been accompanied by large numbers of rescue vessels. The war games have been conducted in the Norwegian Sea where depths reach 4,000m.

A source told the Mirror: “The reason for these extreme depth missions has eluded most analysts but it could be simply to access the Atlantic with stealth.

“There has been an increase in Russian submarine activity of late, as there has with much of Moscow’s armed forces as it tests the resolve of NATO.

“Russia is keen to exert as much power and influence as possible around the globe, in particular for the Northern Fleet, which is integral for passage into the Atlantic.”