The Russian Kazan nuclear submarine, of the Yasen-M class, docked in Havana, has generated concern due to its apparent poor condition.
Kazan submarine in Cuba: failures in anechoic panels compromise stealth
The nuclear submarine Kazanof the class Yasen-Mhas been the subject of attention in Havana due to its apparent deterioration. Images shared on social media show missing soundproofing panels, compromising the submarine’s stealth capabilities. This type of problem is not exclusive to the Russian Navyas Western submarines also face similar problems due to harsh operating conditions.
The state of Kazan has raised criticism of the maintenance standards of the Russian Navy. Observers and experts have expressed concern about the submarine’s ability to complete its return trip to Russia without incident. Marijn Markus, a consultant Capgeminiwas the first to share the photos on LinkedInnoting that the loss of anechoic panels could make the submarine noisy and detectable on sonar.
Markus noted that panel loss is a common problem on submarines, usually due to adhesive problems and the constant compression and expansion of the hull. However, the case of Kazan has generated a significant reaction on social media, with some suggesting that the crew should seek maintenance in Florida.
Structural problems in submarines: an engineering challenge
Naval researcher H.I. Sutton explained that submarines face some of the greatest engineering challenges due to the temperature and pressure changes they experience. Titanium helmets, like those of the Yasen-Mpresent additional difficulties in maintaining the anechoic coating.
Sutton noted that these problems are common on submarines operating in the Arctic, where conditions are especially harsh. Although the loss of the panels will not affect the operational capabilities of the Kazanother experts point out that it is indicative of the poor maintenance management of the Russian Navy.
He Kazancommissioned in May 2001, has been widely promoted by the Kremlin during his visit to Cuba. Speculation about his status upon returning to Russia reflects concerns about the ability of the Russian Navy to keep your submarines in optimal condition.
Reactions on social networks: criticism and humor at the expense of Kazan
The images of Kazan have generated a wave of comments on social networks, many of which mock the Russian Navy. Jason Jay Smart, of the Kyiv Postcommented sarcastically on the submarine situation and Russian management of naval maintenance.
The comparison with Western submarines that have also lost anechoic panels has fueled debate about the technical challenges common to all navies. However, the situation of Kazan It has been used as anti-Russian propaganda on various platforms.
The visit of Kazan to Cuba has been seen as an opportunity for power projection by the Kremlin, but the condition of the submarine has raised doubts about the effectiveness of said projection. The focus now is on the return of the Kazan and how his condition will be after this trip.
Conclusion: Naval maintenance and power projection
The submarine case Kazan highlights the importance of maintenance in naval operations and how failures in this aspect can compromise not only operational safety, but also the international image of a naval force.
Comparison with similar problems on Western submarines suggests that the technical challenges are universal, but the visibility of the case of the Kazan has highlighted the specific difficulties faced by the Russian Navy in its effort to keep its fleet in optimal condition.
The journey of Kazan to Cuba and the reactions generated reveal the continuing tension between power projection and the practical challenges of maintaining advanced military equipment in demanding conditions.
