Russian submarines amass near NATO's doorstep: Strategic escalation
In early March 2025, satellite images revealed five Russian submarines at the largest naval base of the Russian Northern Fleet, Zapadnaya Litsa, on the Kola Peninsula, near the border with Norway. Among them were three Oscar II-class units, one Yasen-class submarine, and one modern Yasen-M-class submarine.
The Zapadnaya Litsa base, located just 60 kilometres from NATO territory, is a key point for the Russian Northern Fleet. The Bulgarian Military Service reports that the presence of advanced submarines highlights Moscow's investments in underwater capabilities amid growing tensions in the region.
Russian submarines near NATO
Russian Oscar II, Yasen, and Yasen-M class submarines are among the most potent units in the Russian Federation's fleet, designed for superiority in underwater operations and long-range strikes. Oscar II class submarines, or Project 949A Antey, were developed in the 1980s as the USSR's response to American aircraft carriers.
Oscar II submarines are about 155 metres long, have a displacement reaching 26,000 tonnes, and can get a speed of 32 knots underwater. Their main strike force consists of P-700 Granit anti-ship missiles capable of destroying large surface units. They are also equipped with 533 mm and 650 mm in calibre torpedoes. Some of these submarines have been modernised to carry modern Kalibr missiles.
The Yasen class (Project 885) is a new generation of Russian multipurpose nuclear-powered submarines. These submarines are about 139 metres long, can dispense 15,200 tonnes, and can reach speeds up to 31 knots. Their armament includes Kalibr, Oniks, and hypersonic Zircon cruise missiles, which can be used for both maritime and land attacks. The weapon system is supplemented by 533 mm torpedoes.
Yasen-M (Project 885M) is an upgraded version of the Yasen class with improved command systems, sonar, and reduced noise emissions. These submarines are a few metres shorter, weigh about 14,300 tonnes, and carry up to 40 Kalibr, Oniks, or Zircon missiles. Thus, Russia can conduct conventional and nuclear strikes over several thousand kilometres.
The Arctic as a battleground of various influences
The Zapadnaya Litsa base plays a significant role in Russia's bastion defence strategy, protecting its strategic submarines. As noted by the Bulgarian Military, experts suggest that the submarines mentioned in this location may imply preparations for increased activity in the Barents Sea or other areas. The Russian Ministry of Defence has not directly commented on these reports, but earlier statements emphasise the role of the Northern Fleet in protecting national interests.
The Bulgarian military-themed service notes that NATO finds the concentration of submarines in Zapadnaya Litsa challenging. The base is located close to key alliance maritime routes, and modern submarines like the Yasen-M draw particular interest from Western navies. Norway has increased regional surveillance, using P-8 Poseidon aircraft and underwater sensors to monitor underwater activity.
