Russia deploys its ‘Trojan horse’ capable of carrying nuclear warheads, merging the civilian and military spheres
Last year, Project 23550 was launched in Russia, a vehicle that can reach speeds of 18 knots.
A year after Russia launched Project 23550, the Navy has commissioned the combat icebreaker Ivan Papanin, named after the twice-decorated Soviet Arctic explorer.
In addition to its primary role as an icebreaker, the vessel serves as a patrol ship and tugboat and can escort support vessels. It is also capable of protecting marine resources. The ship measures 114 meters in length, has an endurance of 70 days, and a range of 10,000 nautical miles.
The Ivan Papanin can accommodate 49 crew members and features a helipad for helicopters or other vehicles, such as drones. Its propulsion system delivers 15 MW of power, enabling a maximum speed of 18 knots (approximately 33 km/h). Its most notable weapon is the 76.2 mm AK-176MA automatic naval cannon.
With this addition, Russia has further strengthened its naval capabilities and modernized its extensive fleet, which includes vessels such as the world’s largest nuclear cruiser, the Peter the Great. This cruiser is classified as nuclear-powered because it is equipped with two reactors generating approximately 100 megawatts. In addition to advanced intelligence and security systems, it carries twenty launchers for Granit missiles.
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Russia’s naval modernization also includes nuclear submarines, such as the Archangel, the fifth boat of the Yasen-M class. It can reach speeds of 35 knots and is powered by a reactor producing roughly 43,000 horsepower.
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