Russia Perm submarine with Zircon missiles

Russia confirmed that the new Perm‑class nuclear attack submarine will be commissioned by the end of 2026. Built at the Sevmash shipyard and launched in March 2025, the 130‑metre vessel displaces about 13,800 tonnes and carries a crew of roughly 64. It is the first Russian submarine designed from the outset to launch the 3M22 Zircon hypersonic cruise missile, with eight vertical launch tubes capable of holding up to four missiles each, or alternative Onyx or Kalibr missiles.

Admiral Alexander Moiseev, commander‑in‑chief of the Russian Navy, said the Perm will join the Pacific fleet and noted that the Navy has already introduced 20 new ships, vessels and boats this year, with plans for 21 more. The submarine’s stealth, deep‑water launch capability and hypersonic speed are seen as a significant boost to Russia’s under‑sea deterrent and could affect the strategic balance in the Indo‑Pacific region. The induction was highlighted by President Vladimir Putin as strengthening the naval leg of Russia’s nuclear triad, alongside progress on the nuclear‑capable Poseidon unmanned underwater vehicle.