The Russian spy submarine Losharik, also known as AS-31, is on the verge of returning to service after five years of repairs following a tragic accident in 2019 that resulted in the loss of 14 sailors. This event marked one of Russia’s worst maritime disasters in recent history. As reported by Russian media, the submarine will undergo sea testing in June before being fully operational again.
The resurrection of the Losharik will significantly enhance Russia’s deep-sea warfare capabilities, particularly within the General Directorate for Deep Sea Research (GUGI), an elite unit specializing in undersea combat. GUGI, considered the largest and most advanced unit in the world, is expected to regain its strength with the return of the Losharik. In contrast, while the United States has the most powerful navy globally, it lags behind Russia in deep-sea warfare due to its limited capabilities in this domain.
Undersea warfare involves military and intelligence operations conducted at extreme depths below the ocean’s surface, making it one of the most secretive forms of modern warfare. Activities encompass a wide range of actions, including installing surveillance devices on undersea cables, sabotaging enemy infrastructure, and conducting covert operations in sensitive areas. The technology required for undersea warfare is typically reserved for the most advanced naval forces, with Russia currently leading the way in this crucial domain.
Apart from the Losharik, Russia possesses several other deep-diving submarine models, such as Paltus, X-Ray, and Kashalot. These vessels are powered by nuclear energy and feature titanium shells that can withstand immense pressures at great depths. Equipped with mechanical arms for interacting with objects on the seabed, these submarines are pivotal in Russia’s undersea operations. On the other hand
