Russian Submarine Fleet Ceases Sea Operations: Losses and Maintenance Risks Cited.

State of the Russian Submarine Fleet

According to TSN.ua: The Russian Navy has effectively halted the deployment of its submarines for maritime operations due to combat losses and the risks associated with servicing them. Ukrainian Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk reported that Russia is no longer utilizing its submarines in naval missions, a capability it had actively employed over the previous two years. This marks a significant shift in Russia's naval posture in the region.

According to Pletenchuk, the Russian fleet has lost several submarines. This includes the destruction of the Project 636 'Varshavyanka'-class submarine 'Rostov-on-Don' by Ukrainian aircraft, along with another submarine destroyed in Novorossiysk. Consequently, the Russian Black Sea Fleet is now left with only two cruise missile-capable submarines.

'Accordingly, they are forced to conserve this resource, because placing it into maintenance—whether in a dry dock or at a pier—immediately exposes it to danger.'

Dmytro Pletenchuk

Reliance on Surface Vessels

Among the surface ships, the Russian fleet retains:

• Five Kalibr cruise missile carriers
• Three Project Buyan-class ships
• Two frigates, the 'Admiral Essen' and the 'Admiral Makarov'

However, Russian forces are encountering difficulties in using these naval missile carriers due to worsening weather conditions, which further complicates their maritime operations.

The loss of submarines severely degrades the Russian fleet's capabilities in the Black Sea, as these vessels played a key role in launching missile attacks on Ukrainian targets. The reduction in active submarines also indicates growing pressure on the Russian military fleet, which could impact its overall war strategy. Combined with the deteriorating weather, Russian forces may face even greater challenges in executing their maritime missions.