View source for Akula-class submarine

{{Short description|Class of nuclear attack submarines}}
{{About|the Soviet/Russian submarine class with NATO reporting name "Akula"|the submarine class with native Russian name "Akula" (Акула)|Typhoon-class submarine}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2021}}
{| {{Infobox ship begin
| display title = ''Akula''-class submarine
}}
{{Infobox ship image
| Ship image = AkulaProjekt971U right.png
| Ship image size = 300px
| Ship caption = ''Akula''-class SSN profile
}}
|-
{{Infobox ship image
| Ship image = [[File:АПЛ "Кузбасс".jpg|300px]]
| Ship caption = 
}}
{{Infobox ship class overview
| Name = ''Akula'' class
| Builders = *[[Amur Shipbuilding Plant|Komsomolsk-on-Amur]]
* [[Sevmash|Severodvinsk]]
| Operators = {{ubl|{{navy|Soviet Union}}|{{navy|Russia}}|{{navy|India}}}}
| Class before = {{sclass2|Victor|submarine|4}}, {{sclass2|Sierra|submarine|4}}
| Class after = {{sclass2|Yasen|submarine|4}}
| Subclasses = 
| Cost = est. $1.55&nbsp;billion (1995 dollars)
| Built range = 1983–1999
| In service range = 
| In commission range = 1984–present
| Total ships building = 
| Total ships planned = 20
| Total ships completed = 15
| Total ships cancelled = 4 (1 ''Iribis'' suspended 42% complete since 1996)
| Total ships active = 4 (4 active +6 on modernization in Russia)
| Total ships laid up = 
| Total ships lost = 
| Total ships retired = 4
| Total ships preserved = 
| Total ships stricken = 
}}
{{Infobox ship characteristics
| Hide header = 
| Header caption = 
| Ship class = 
| Ship type = [[Attack submarine|Nuclear attack submarine]]
| Ship tonnage = 
| Ship displacement = *surfaced:
*8,140 tons Akula I and Akula I Improved
*8,450–8,470 tons Akula II and III
*submerged:
*12,770 tons Akula I and Akula I Improved
*13,400–13,800 tons Akula II and III
| Ship length = *{{convert|110.3|m|abbr=on}} for Akula I and Akula I Improved
*{{convert|113.3|m|abbr=on}} for Akula II and Akula III
| Ship beam = {{convert|13.6|m|abbr=on}}
| Ship height = 
| Ship draught = {{convert|9.7|m|abbr=on}}
| Ship draft = 
| Ship depth = 
| Ship hold depth = 
| Ship decks = 
| Ship deck clearance = 
| Ship ramps = 
| Ship ice class = 
| Ship power = 
| Ship propulsion = *one 190&nbsp;MW [[OK-650 reactor|OK-650B/OK-650M]] pressurized water [[nuclear reactor]] ([[highly enriched uranium|HEU]] <= 45%)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://lynceans.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Marine-Nuclear-Power-1939-2018_Part-3A_R1_Russia_submarines.pdf|access-date=18 April 2023|website=lynceans.org|title=Russian submarines|date=October 2018}}</ref>
*1 OK-7 [[steam turbine]] {{convert|43,000|hp|MW|abbr=on}}
*2 OK-2 Turbo[[Electrical generator|generators]] producing 2 MW
*1 seven-bladed [[propeller]]
*2 OK-300 retractable electric [[propulsor]]s for low-speed and quiet maneuvering at {{convert|5|kn}}
| Ship sail plan = 
| Ship speed = *{{convert|10|kn}} surfaced
*{{convert|28|-|35|kn}} submerged<ref name=Janes2008>{{cite book |editor-first=Stephen |editor-last=Saunders |date=2008 |title=Jane's Fighting Ships 2008-09 |location=[[Coulsdon]], UK |publisher=[[Jane's Information Group]] |page=644 |isbn=978-0-71062-845-9}}</ref>
| Ship range = 
| Ship endurance = 100 days<ref name="Podvodnye Lodki 2003"/>
| Ship test depth = *{{convert|480|m|abbr=on}} [[test depth]] for Akula I and Akula I Improved
*{{convert|520|m|abbr=on}} for Akula II and III
*{{convert|600|m|abbr=on}} [[maximum operating depth]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rusnavy.com/news/navy/index.php?ELEMENT_ID=8610 |title=The Ship Day to be celebrated at SSN Kuzbass |website=Rusnavy.com |date=2010-01-28 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120917113157/http://rusnavy.com/news/navy/index.php?ELEMENT_ID=8610 |archive-date=2012-09-17 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| Ship boats = 
| Ship capacity = 
| Ship troops = 
| Ship complement = 73 for Akula I & Improved,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/projects/akula/ |title=Specification: SSN Akula Class (Bars Type 971) Attack Submarine, Russia |website=Naval-technology.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110605033644/http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/akula/specs.html |archive-date=2011-06-05}}</ref> 62 (31 officers) for Akula II & III.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Fighting-Ships/Typhoon-Akula-class-Project-941-941U-Russian-Federation.html |title=Typhoon (Akula) class (Project 941/941U) (Russian Federation) |website=Jane's Fighting Ships |date=2012-07-24 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130126160105/http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Fighting-Ships/Typhoon-Akula-class-Project-941-941U-Russian-Federation.html |archive-date=2013-01-26 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| Ship time to activate = 
| Ship sensors = *MGK-540 active/passive suite
*Flank arrays
*Pelamida [[towed array sonar]]
*MG-70 mine detection sonar
| Ship EW = *Bukhta [[Electronic warfare support measures|ESM]]/[[Electronic countermeasures|ECM]]
*MG-74 Korund noise simulation [[decoy]]s (fired from external tubes)
*MT-70 Sonar intercept receiver
*Nikhrom-M [[Identification friend or foe|IFF]]
| Ship armament = *4 × 533 mm torpedo tubes (28 torpedoes) and 4 × 650 mm torpedo tubes (12 torpedoes). (K-152 ''Nerpa'' has 8 × 533 mm torpedo tubes) 40 torpedoes total
*1–3 × [[9K38 Igla|Igla-M]] surface-to-air missile launcher fired from sail (surface use only)
*[[RK-55|Granat]] cruise missiles, now [[Kalibr]]
| Ship armour = 
| Ship armor = 
| Ship aircraft = 
| Ship aircraft facilities = 
| Ship notes = *Chiblis Surface Search [[radar]]
*Medvyeditsa-945 Navigation system
*Molniya-M Satellite communications
*MGK-80 Underwater communications
*Tsunami, Kiparis, Anis, Sintez and Kora Communications antennas
*Paravan Towed [[Very low frequency|VLF]] Antenna
*Vspletsk Combat direction system
}}
|}

The '''''Akula'' class''', Soviet designation '''Project 971 ''Shchuka-B''''' ({{langx|ru|Щука-Б||[[pike (fish)|Pike]]-B}}, [[List of Soviet and Russian submarine classes|NATO reporting name]] '''''Akula''''') is a series of fourth generation [[Nuclear marine propulsion|nuclear-powered]] [[attack submarine]]s (SSNs) first deployed by the [[Soviet Navy]] in 1986. There are four sub-classes or flights of Shchuka-B, consisting of the original seven Project 971 boats (codenamed ''Akula I''), commissioned between 1984 and 1990; six Project 971Is (Improved ''Akula''s), commissioned between 1991 and 2009; one Project 971U (''Akula II''), commissioned in 1995; and one Project 971M (''Akula III''), commissioned in 2001. The Russians call all of the submarines ''Shchuka-B'', regardless of modifications.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/ |title=In-service ships |website=Rusnavy.com |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005094347/http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/ |archive-date=2012-10-05 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

Some confusion may exist as the name ''Akula'' (Russian: Акула, meaning "[[shark]]" in Russian) was used by the Soviets for a different class of submarines, the Project 941, which is known in the West as the {{sclass2|Typhoon|submarine|4}}. The Project 971 was named ''Shchuka-B'' by the Soviets but given the designation ''Akula'' by the West after the name of the lead ship, K-284.

According to defense analyst [[Norman Polmar]], the launch of the first submarine in 1985, "shook everyone [in the West] up", as Western intelligence agencies had not expected the Soviet Union to produce such a boat for another ten years.<ref>{{cite journal |first=Colin |last=Norman |jstor=1703462 |title=Quiet Soviet Subs Prompt Concern |journal=[[Science (journal)|Science]] |publisher=American Association for the Advancement of Science |volume=243 |issue=4899 |date=31 March 1989 |pages=1653–1654 |doi=10.1126/science.243.4899.1653 |pmid=17751269|bibcode=1989Sci...243.1653N }}</ref>

==Design==
[[File:AkulaSchema2.svg|thumb|left|Descriptions of the ''Akula''-class SSN]]
The ''Akula'' incorporates a double hull system composed of an inner pressure hull and an outer "light" hull. This allows more freedom in the design of the exterior hull shape, resulting in a submarine with more reserve [[buoyancy]] than its western analogs.

The distinctive "bulb" or "can" located on top of the Akula's [[rudder]] houses its [[towed sonar array]] when retracted. Most ''Akulas'' have the wake detection system ({{langx|ru|Система обнаружения кильватерного следа}}) ([[SOKS]]) hydrodynamic [[sensor]]s, which detect changes in temperature and [[salinity]]. They are located on the leading edge of the sail, on the outer hull casing in front of the sail and on the bottom of the hull forward of the sail.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/navy-ships/a28724/submarine-sonar-soks/ |title=How the Soviet Union Snooped Waters for Enemy Subs — Without Sonar |first=David |last=Hambling |date=23 October 2017 |website=[[Popular Mechanics]] |access-date=2019-05-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190511213047/https://www.popularmechanics.com/military/navy-ships/a28724/submarine-sonar-soks/ |archive-date=2019-05-11 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/27913/royal-navy-sub-appears-in-gibraltar-equipped-with-a-wake-detection-system |title=Royal Navy Sub Appears In Gibraltar Equipped With A Wake Detection System |first=Joseph |last=Trevithick |date=8 May 2019 |website=The Drive |access-date=2019-05-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190511213028/https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/27913/royal-navy-sub-appears-in-gibraltar-equipped-with-a-wake-detection-system |archive-date=2019-05-11 |url-status=live}}</ref>

''Akulas'' (excluding ''Nerpa'') are armed with four 533&nbsp;mm [[torpedo tubes]] which can use [[Type 53 torpedo]]es or the [[RPK-2 Viyuga|RPK-2]], [[RPK-6 Vodopad/RPK-7 Veter|RPK-6]] missile, and four 650&nbsp;mm torpedo tubes which can use [[Type 65 torpedo]]es or the RPK-7 missile. These torpedo tubes are arranged in two rows of four tubes each. The external tubes are mounted outside the pressure hull in one row, above the torpedo tubes, and can only be reloaded in port or with the assistance of a submarine tender. The 650&nbsp;mm tubes can be fitted with liners to use the 533&nbsp;mm weaponry. The submarine is also able to use its torpedo tubes to deploy [[naval mines]]. 

==Versions==
As with many Soviet/Russian craft, information on the status of the ''Akula''-class submarines is sparse, at best. Information provided by sources varies widely.

===Project 971 (''Akula I'')===
[[File:AkulaProjekt971klein.png|thumb|left|The four known versions of the ''Akula'' class]]
Of the seven original ''Akula''s, only three are known to still be in service. These boats are equipped with MGK-540 Skat-3 sonar system (NATO reporting name Shark Gill).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.harpoondatabases.com/Sensor.aspx?DB=5&ID=420 |title=MGK-500 Shark Gill (Bow) |website=HarpoonDatabases.com |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130419042826/http://www.harpoondatabases.com/Sensor.aspx?DB=5&ID=420 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-04-19}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://submarine.su/mgk500.shtml |title=Armament "MGK-500" automated sonar complex |website=Submarine.su |access-date=2012-10-04 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018134247/http://submarine.su/mgk500.shtml |archive-date=2012-10-18}}</ref> The lead boat of the class, K-284 ''Akula'', was decommissioned in 2001, apparently to help save money in the cash-strapped Russian Navy. K-322 ''Kashalot'' and K-480 ''Bars'' [currently ''Ak Bars''] are in reserve. K-480 ''Bars'' was put into reserve in 1998,<ref name="Podvodnye Lodki 2003">{{cite book |first=Yu. V. |last=Apalkov |date=2003 |title=Подводные лодки ВМФ СССР |trans-title=Submarines of the Soviet Navy |location=Sankt-Peterburg |publisher=Galeya Print |isbn=5-8172-0071-6}}</ref> and was being dismantled in February 2010. ''Pantera'' returned to service in January 2008 after a comprehensive overhaul.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/k-317.htm |title=K-317 Pantera |website=Rusnavy.com |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120418225646/http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/k-317.htm |archive-date=2012-04-18 |url-status=dead}}</ref> All were retrofitted with the SOKS hydrodynamic sensors. All submarines before K-391 ''Bratsk'' have reactor coolant scoops that are similar to the ones of the {{sclass2|Typhoon|submarine|4}} SSBNs, long and tubular. ''Bratsk'' and subsequent submarines have reactor coolant scoops similar to the short ones on the Oscar IIs (the ''Typhoon'', ''Akula'' and ''Oscar'' classes use the similar OK-650 reactor).

===Project 971 and 971I (Improved ''Akula I'')===
The six ''Akula''s of this class are all thought to be in service. They are quieter than the original ''Akula''s. Sources also disagree as to whether construction of this class has been suspended, or if there are a further two units planned.

Improved ''Akula I'' Hulls: K-328 ''Leopard'', K-461 ''Volk'', K-154 ''Tigr'', K-419 ''Kuzbass'', K-295 ''Samara'' and K-152 ''Nerpa''. These submarines are much quieter than early ''Akula''-class submarines and all have the SOKS hydrodynamic sensors except ''Leopard''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/deep.htm |title=Run Silent, Run Deep |website=FAS.org |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060205165346/https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/deep.htm |archive-date=2006-02-05 |url-status=live}}</ref>{{Failed verification|date=July 2023}}

===Project 971U (''Akula II'')===
K-157 ''Vepr'' is the only completed ''Akula II'' (see the table below).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/submarines/k-157/ |title=K-157 Vepr |website=Rusnavy.com |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170701101151/http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/submarines/k-157/ |archive-date=2017-07-01 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The ''Akula II'' is {{convert|3|m}} longer and displaces about 700 tons (submerged displacement) more than the ''Akula I''. The added space was used for additional quieting measures.  K-157 ''Vepr'' became the first Russian submarine that was quieter than the latest U.S. attack submarines of that time, which was the improved {{sclass|Los Angeles|submarine|4}} (SSN 751 and later).<ref>Adm. Boorda, statement at a meeting of the Naval & Maritime Correspondents Circle, Washington, D.C., 27 February 1995.</ref> Two of these submarines were used to build the {{sclass2|Borei|submarine|0}} SSBNs.

===Project 971M (''Akula III'')===
The K-335 ''Gepard'' is the 14th submarine of the class and the only completed ''Akula III'' (see the table below) built for the Russian Navy.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/submarines/k-335/ |title=K-335 Gepard |website=Rusnavy.com |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170717072836/http://rusnavy.com/nowadays/strength/submarines/k-335/ |archive-date=2017-07-17 |url-status=dead}}</ref> It was the first submarine commissioned in the Russian Navy since the ''Kursk'' disaster, as a result, its commissioning ceremony was an important morale boost for the Russian Navy with President Vladimir Putin in attendance.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/41924 |title=President Vladimir Putin attended a ceremony of adopting the Gepard nuclear-powered submarine by the Russian Navy |date=4 December 2001 |website=[[President of Russia]] |access-date=2019-01-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190113122415/http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/41924 |archive-date=2019-01-13 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.spacedaily.com/news/submarine-01a.html |title=Putin Inauguration of New Sub Seen As Balm To Russian Navy |first=Bernard |last=Besserglik |date=4 December 2001 |website=SpaceDaily.com |access-date=2019-01-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808132053/http://www.spacedaily.com/news/submarine-01a.html |archive-date=2014-08-08 |url-status=live}}</ref> There is no NATO classification for the ''Akula III''. It is longer and has a larger displacement compared to the ''Akula II'', also it has an enlarged sail and a different towed-array dispenser on the vertical fin. Again, more noise reduction methods were employed. The ''Gepard'' was the most advanced Russian submarine before the submarines of the {{sclass|Severodvinsk|submarine|5}} and ''Borei'' class were commissioned.

The Soviet advances in sound quieting were of considerable concern to the West, for acoustics was long considered the most significant advantage in U.S. submarine technology compared to the Soviets.

In 1983–1984 the Japanese firm [[Toshiba]] sold sophisticated, nine axis milling equipment to the Soviets along with the computer control systems, which were developed by Norwegian firm [[Kongsberg Gruppen|Kongsberg Vaapenfabrik]]. U.S Navy officials and Congressmen announced that this technology enabled the Soviet submarine builders to produce more accurate and quieter propellers.<ref>{{cite news |title=Quieter Soviet subs cost U.S. at least $30 billion |date=14 March 1988 |work=Navy News & Undersea Technology}}</ref> This is known as the [[Toshiba–Kongsberg scandal]].

Due to the [[breakup of the Soviet Union]] in 1991, production of all ''Akula''s slowed.

The 1999–2000 edition of ''[[Jane's Fighting Ships]]'' incorrectly listed the first ''Akula III'' as ''Viper'' (the actual name is "Vepr", "wild boar" in Russian), commissioned on 25 November 1995. ''Gepard'' (Cheetah), was launched in 1999 and was commissioned 5 December 2001.

==Operational history==
Between December 1995 and February 1996, submarine ''Volk'' was deployed to the [[Mediterranean Sea|Mediterranean]] along the Russian aircraft carrier {{ship|Russian aircraft carrier|Admiral Kuznetsov||2}}, where she monitored activities of several NATO submarines under [[Captain 1st rank]] S. V. Spravtsev.

Between April and June 1996, ''Tigr'' was deployed in the [[Atlantic Ocean|Atlantic]], where she detected a U.S. {{sclass|Ohio|submarine|4}} SSBN and tracked it on its combat patrol.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-154/K-154.htm |title=Подводная лодка К-154, "Тигр". Проект 971 |trans-title=Submarine K-154, "Tiger". Project 971 |language=ru |website=Deepstorm.ru}}</ref> On 23 July 1996, its commander, Captain 1st rank Alexey Burilichev, received a [[Hero of the Russian Federation]] award.<ref name="K-461">{{cite web |url=http://www.warheroes.ru/hero/hero.asp?Hero_id=3980 |title=Буриличев Алексей Витальевич |trans-title=Burilichev, Aleksey Vitalyevich |language=ru |website=WarHeroes.ru |access-date=13 January 2020}}</ref>

In August 2009, the news media reported that two ''Akula''-class submarines operated off the [[East Coast of the United States]], with one of the submarines being identified as a Project 971 Shchuka-B type.  U.S. military sources noted that this was the first known Russian submarine deployment to the western Atlantic since the end of the [[Cold War]], raising concerns within U.S. military and intelligence communities.<ref>{{cite news |title=Russian Subs Patrolling Off East Coast of U.S. |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/05/world/05patrol.html|newspaper=[[The New York Times]] |date=August 2, 2012 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140310131441/http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/05/world/05patrol.html |archive-date=March 10, 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first1=Mazzette |last1=Mark |first2=Thom |last2=Shanker |title=Pentagon: Russian subs no cause for alarm |url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/08/06/Pentagon-Russian-subs-no-cause-for-alarm/UPI-23291249537740/?rel=35751345390615 |work=[[UPI]] |date=August 6, 2009 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120823125404/http://www.upi.com/Top_News/2009/08/06/Pentagon-Russian-subs-no-cause-for-alarm/UPI-23291249537740/?rel=35751345390615 |archive-date=August 23, 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[U.S. Northern Command]] confirmed that this 2009 ''Akula''-class submarine deployment did occur.<ref name="Ewing">{{cite web |first=Phillip |last=Ewing |title=Pentagon Denies Russian Sub Patrolled Gulf of Mexico |url=http://news.usni.org/news-analysis/news/pentagon-denies-russian-sub-patrolled-gulf-mexico |work=News and Analysis |publisher=[[United States Naval Institute]] |date=August 20, 2012 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120826012615/http://news.usni.org/news-analysis/news/pentagon-denies-russian-sub-patrolled-gulf-mexico |archive-date=August 26, 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> One of the boats was likely ''Gepard'' that finished a relatively lengthy combat patrol between June and September that year<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-335/K-335.htm |title=Подводная лодка К-335, "Гепард". Проект 971 |trans-title=Submarine K-335, "Gepard". Project 971 |language=ru |website=Deepstorm.ru}}</ref> under the command of the Captain 1st rank Alexey Vyacheslavovich Dmitrov, who on 15 February 2012 was awarded a title Hero of the Russian Federation for courage shown at work.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.warheroes.ru/hero/hero.asp?Hero_id=14570 |title=Дмитров Алексей Вячеславович |trans-title=Dmitrov, Aleksey Vyacheslavovich |language=ru |website=WarHeroes.ru}}</ref> The other submarine could have been ''Tigr'' under the command of Captain E. A. Petrov, given that she performed a combat patrol sometime between March and November 2009.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/on_1992/971/266/266.htm |title=266-й экипаж подводной лодки. Проект 971 |trans-title=266th crew of the submarine. Project 971 |language=ru |website=Deepstorm.ru}}</ref> It is unlikely that other submarines of the project 971 could have been present in the Atlantic that year. ''Pantera'' was in Severemorsk during summer,<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/k317/k317.htm |title=Подводная лодка К-317, "Пантера". Проект 971 |trans-title=Submarine K-317, "Panther". Project 971 |language=ru |website=Deepstorm.ru}}</ref> while ''Vepr'', ''Leopard'' and ''Volk'' did not report any kind of activity in that year (1-3 submarines of the project are usually active with the Northern Fleet at any given moment).

In August 2012, the news media reported that another ''Akula''-class submarine operated in the [[Gulf of Mexico]] purportedly undetected for over a month, sparking controversy within U.S. military and political circles, with U.S. Senator [[John Cornyn]] of the [[Senate Armed Services Committee]] demanding details of this deployment from Admiral [[Jonathan W. Greenert]], the [[Chief of Naval Operations]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Reports of Russian sub in gulf downplayed |url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2012/08/19/Reports-of-Russian-sub-in-gulf-downplayed/UPI-35751345390615/ |work=[[UPI]] |date=August 19, 2012 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922023039/http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2012/08/19/Reports-of-Russian-sub-in-gulf-downplayed/UPI-35751345390615 |archive-date=September 22, 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> Most likely, this was ''Tigr'', as its commander Captain 1st rank Pavel Bulgakov received the [[Order of Courage (Russia)|Order of Courage]] on the [[Defender of the Fatherland Day]] on 22 February 2013.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://structure.mil.ru/structure/forces/navy/news/more.htm?id=11676214@egNews |title=Подводные силы Северного флота – лучшее объединение ВМФ в составе Западного военного округа |trans-title=The submarine forces of the Northern Fleet – the best formation of the Navy in the Western Military District |date=18 March 2013 |website=Russian Ministry of Defence |language=ru |access-date=4 June 2021}}</ref>

==Units==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+
! width=40 | #
! width=60 | Name
! Project
! Builders
! Laid down
! Launched
! Commissioned
! Fleet
! Status
|-
| K-284
| [[Russian submarine K-284 Akula|''Akula'']]
| 971
| [[Amur Shipbuilding Plant|Amur Shipyard]]
| 11 November 1983
| 27 June 1984
| 30 December 1984
| Pacific Fleet
| Decommissioned in 2001.
|-
| K-480
| ''[[Russian submarine Ak Bars (K-480)|Ak Bars]]''
| 971
| [[Sevmash]]
| 22 February 1985
| 16 April 1988
| 29 December 1988
| Northern Fleet
| Decommissioned in 2002, scrapping began in 2010 but the hull section was used<br />in the construction of ballistic missile submarine ''[[Russian submarine Vladimir Monomakh|Vladimir Monomakh]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-480/K-480.htm |title=К-480, "Барс", "Ак Барс" |trans-title=K-480, "Bars", "Ak Bars" |website=Deepstorm.ru |language=ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111110051610/http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-480/K-480.htm |archive-date=2011-11-10 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-263
| ''[[Russian submarine Barnaul (K-263)|Barnaul]]''
| 971
| Amur Shipyard
| 9 May 1985
| 28 May 1986
| 30 December 1987
| Pacific Fleet
| Decommissioned in 2011
|-
| K-322
| ''[[Russian submarine Kashalot (K-322)|Kashalot]]''
| 971
| Amur Shipyard
| 5 September 1986
| 18 July 1987
| 30 December 1988
| Pacific Fleet
| Decommissioned on 9 October 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://russianships.info/eng/submarines/project_971.htm |title=Nuclear-Powered Submarines - Project 971 |website=Russianships.info}}</ref>
|-
| K-317
| ''[[Russian submarine Pantera (K-317)|Pantera]]''
| 971
| Sevmash
| 6 November 1986
| 21 May 1990
| 27 December 1990
| Northern Fleet
| Active, overhaul and modernization completed in 2007.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/k317/k317.htm |title=К-317, "Пантера" Проект 971 |trans-title=K-317, "Panther" Project 971 |website=Deepstorm.ru |language=ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170707015145/http://deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/k317/k317.htm |archive-date=2017-07-07 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-461
| ''[[Russian submarine Volk (K-461)|Volk]]''
| 971
| Sevmash
| 14 November 1987
| 11 June 1991
| 29 December 1991
| Northern Fleet
| Overhaul and modernization to finish in 2028.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://vpk.name/en/476272_source-the-submarine-wolf-with-caliber-will-return-to-the-navy-in-2023.html |title=Source: the submarine "Wolf" with "Caliber" will return to the Navy in 2023 |date=6 January 2021 |website=Novosti VPK}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://flotprom.ru/news/?ELEMENT_ID=169827 |title=Подлодка "Волк" отправилась на ремонт |trans-title=Submarine "Wolf" went for repair |date=14 August 2014 |language=ru |website=flotprom.ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180104014626/http://flotprom.ru/news/?ELEMENT_ID=169827 |archive-date=2018-01-04 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="iz.ru">{{cite web |url=http://iz.ru/news/686063 |title=Бесшумные "Суперакулы" вооружили "Калибрами" |trans-title=Silent "Superakuly" armed with "Calibers" |language=ru |date=28 April 2017 |work=[[Izvestia]] |access-date=16 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170716154915/http://iz.ru/news/686063 |archive-date=16 July 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tass.ru/armiya-i-opk/20155785|title=Источник: возвращение АПЛ "Волк" в боевой состав Северного флота планируется на 2028 год|date=5 March 2024|language=ru|website=TASS}}</ref>
|-
| K-391
| ''[[Russian submarine Bratsk (K-391)|Bratsk]]''
| 971
| Amur Shipyard
| 23 February 1988
| 14 April 1989
| 29 December 1989
| Pacific Fleet
| Decommissioned 2022, awaiting scrapping.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://flot.com/2022/%D0%97%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%B7%D0%B4%D0%BE%D1%87%D0%BA%D0%B01/ |title=СМИ узнали о списании атомной подлодки "Братск" |trans-title=The media learned about the decommissioning of the nuclear submarine "Bratsk" |language=ru |date=17 January 2022 }}</ref>
|-
| K-328
| ''[[Russian submarine Leopard (K-328)|Leopard]]''
| 971
| Sevmash
| 26 October 1988
| 28 June 1992
| 30 December 1992
| Northern Fleet
| Overhaul and modernization to finish in second half of 2021;<ref name="iz.ru"/><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://tass.ru/armiya-i-opk/10411469 |title=Источник: подлодка "Леопард" вернется в боевой состав ВМФ во второй половине 2021 года |trans-title=Source: the submarine "Leopard" will return to the combat strength of the Navy in the second half of 2021 |date=6 January 2021 |website=ТАSS |language=ru}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://flot.com/news/navy/index.php?ELEMENT_ID=158174 |title=Плановый срок ремонта АПЛ серии "Щука-Б" составит не менее 3 лет |trans-title=The planned repair period for nuclear submarines of the Shchuka-B series will be at least 3 years |date=13 December 2013 |website=Flot.com |language=ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180104073003/http://flot.com/news/navy/index.php?ELEMENT_ID=158174 |archive-date=2018-01-04 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://tass.com/defense/1240017 |title=Russian shipyard floats out nuclear-powered Akula-class sub after upgrade |date=26 December 2020 |website=TASS}}</ref> projected as likely to begin post-refit sea trials in 2022<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://thebarentsobserver.com/en/security/2021/12/after-ten-years-shipsyard-nuclear-sub-leopard-soon-sail|title = After ten years at yard, nuclear sub "Leopard" is soon to sail}}</ref>
|-
| K-154
| ''[[Russian submarine Tigr (K-154)|Tigr]]''
| 971
| Sevmash
| 10 September 1989
| 26 June 1993
| 29 December 1993
| Northern Fleet
| Overhaul to finish in 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://tass.ru/armiya-i-opk/10431539 |title=Подлодка "Тигр" "звериной" дивизии вернется в состав флота в 2022 году |trans-title=Submarine "Tiger" of the "animal" division will return to the fleet in 2022 |date=11 January 2021 |website=ТАSS |language=ru}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-154/K-154.htm |title=Подводная лодка К-154, "Тигр". Проект 971 |trans-title=Submarine K-154, "Tiger". Project 971 |website=Deepstorm.ru |language=ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170718051535/http://deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-154/K-154.htm |archive-date=2017-07-18 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-331
| ''[[Russian submarine Magadan (K-331)|Magadan]]''
| 971
| Amur Shipyard
| 28 December 1989
| 23 June 1990
| 23 December 1990
| Pacific Fleet
| In overhaul from July 2019 to 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.korabel.ru/news/comments/modernizirovannaya_podlodka_magadan_vernetsya_v_stroy_v_2022_godu.html |title=Модернизированная подлодка Магадан вернется в строй в 2022 году |trans-title=Upgraded submarine Magadan will return to service in 2022 |date=14 November 2020 |language=ru |website=Korabel.ru}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://tass.com/defense/1071009 |title=Russian shipbuilders start repairs of nuclear-powered subs for Pacific Fleet |date=30 July 2019 |website=TASS}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Vavasseur |first=Xavier |date=2020-10-02 |title=Russian Akula-class Submarine 'Magadan' to be Operational Again in 2022 |url=https://www.navalnews.com/naval-news/2020/10/russian-akula-class-submarine-magadan-to-be-operational-again-in-2022/ |access-date=2020-10-06 |website=Naval News |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
| K-157
| [[Russian submarine Vepr (K-157)|''Vepr'']]
| 971U
| Sevmash
| 13 July 1990
| 10 December 1994
| 25 November 1995
| Northern Fleet
| Active, overhaul and modernization completed in 2020.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://rg.ru/2020/03/19/reg-szfo/atomnaia-podlodka-s-kalibrami-vyshla-na-ispytaniia.html |title=Атомная подлодка с "Калибрами" вышла на испытания |trans-title=Nuclear submarine with "Caliber" went for testing |date=19 March 2020 |language=ru |website=[[Rossiyskaya Gazeta]] |access-date=19 March 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://eng.mil.ru/en/news_page/country/more.htm?id=12305574@egNews |title=Nuclear submarine Vepr returned to the Russian Navy after repair |date=5 August 2020 |website=Russian Ministry of Defence |access-date=4 June 2021}}</ref>
|-
| K-xxx
|
| 971M
| Amur Shipyard
| 1990
|
|
|
| Not completed.
|-
| K-419
| ''[[Russian submarine Kuzbass (K-419)|Kuzbass]]''
| 971
| Amur Shipyard
| 28 July 1991
| 18 May 1992
| 31 December 1992
| Pacific Fleet
| Active, overhaul and modernization completed in 2015.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://vpk-news.ru/news/29797 |title=Отремонтированная АПЛ "Кузбасс" передана ТОФ |trans-title=Repaired nuclear submarine "Kuzbass" transferred to Pacific Fleet |date=19 March 2016 |language=ru |website=vpk-news.ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170723103631/http://vpk-news.ru/news/29797 |archive-date=2017-07-23 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://ria.ru/defense_safety/20151218/1344237083.html |title=Медведев в ДФО осмотрел модернизированную АПЛ К-419 "Кузбасс" |trans-title=Medvedev in the Far Eastern Federal District examined the modernized nuclear submarine K-419 "Kuzbass" |language=ru |work=RIA Novosti |date=18 December 2015 |access-date=16 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910174222/https://ria.ru/defense_safety/20151218/1344237083.html |archive-date=10 September 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-335
| ''[[Russian submarine Gepard (K-335)|Gepard]]''
| 971M
| Sevmash
| 23 September 1991
| 17 September 1999
| 5 December 2001
| Northern Fleet
| Active, overhaul and modernization completed in 2015.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://function.mil.ru/news_page/country/more.htm?id=12067485@egNews |title=Атомная подводная лодка "Гепард" вернулась в состав боевых кораблей подводных сил Северного флота |trans-title=Nuclear submarine "Gepard" returned to the combat ships of the submarine forces of the Northern Fleet |language=ru |website=Russian Ministry of Defense |access-date=2016-01-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160204015946/http://function.mil.ru/news_page/country/more.htm?id=12067485@egNews |archive-date=2016-02-04 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-xxx
|
| 971M
| Amur Shipyard
| 1991
|
|
|
| Not completed.
|-
| K-337
| ''Kuguar''
| 971U
| Sevmash
| 18 August 1992
|
|
|
| Not completed, the hull section was used in the construction of the [[Russian submarine Yury Dolgorukiy (K-535)|''Yury Dolgorukiy'' SSBN]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-337/K-337.htm |title=К-337, "Кугуар" Проект 971 |trans-title=K-337, "Kuguar" Project 971 |website=Deepstorm.ru |language=ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170707015134/http://deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-337/K-337.htm |archive-date=2017-07-07 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-333
| ''Rys''
| 971U
| Sevmash
| 31 August 1993
|
|
|
| Not completed, the hull section was used in the construction of the [[Russian submarine Alexander Nevsky (K-550)|''Alexander Nevsky'' SSBN]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-333/K-333.htm |title=К-333, "Рысь" Проект 971 |trans-title=K-333, "Rys" Project 971 |website=Deepstorm.ru |language=ru |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170707015129/http://deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/K-333/K-333.htm |archive-date=2017-07-07 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-295
| ''[[Russian submarine Samara (K-295)|Samara]]''
| 971
| Amur Shipyard
| 7 November 1993
| 5 August 1994
| 17 July 1995
| Pacific Fleet
| Modernization to finish in 2023.<ref name="arms-expo.ru">{{cite web |url=http://www.arms-expo.ru/news/armed_forces/dve_apl_dostavyat_s_tof_v_severodvinsk_dlya_modernizatsii/ |title=Две АПЛ доставят с ТОФ в Северодвинск для модернизации |trans-title=Two nuclear submarines will be delivered from the Pacific Fleet to Severodvinsk for modernization |date=21 August 2014 |language=ru |work=arms-expo.ru |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180104073327/http://www.arms-expo.ru/news/armed_forces/dve_apl_dostavyat_s_tof_v_severodvinsk_dlya_modernizatsii/ |archive-date=2018-01-04 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| K-152
| [[Russian submarine Nerpa (K-152)|''Nerpa'']]<br />(ex-''Chakra'')
| 971I
| Amur Shipyard
| 1993
| 26 July 2006
| 28 December 2009
| 
| Active, has been leased to India from 2012 until 2022,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Russia-hands-over-nuclear-powered-attack-submarine-to-India/articleshow/11604663.cms |title=Russia hands over nuclear-powered attack submarine to India |date=January 23, 2012 |newspaper=[[The Times of India]] |access-date=4 June 2021}}</ref> returned already in 2021.<ref name="tass.ru">{{Cite web|url=https://tass.ru/mezhdunarodnaya-panorama/11576447|title = СМИ: арендованная Индией атомная подлодка возвращается в Россию}}</ref> Proposed to decommission in 2023.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://tass.ru/armiya-i-opk/19298361|title=Главкомат ВМФ предложил утилизовать аварийную АПЛ "Нерпа"|date=16 November 2023|website=TASS|language=ru}}</ref>
|-
| K-519
| ''Iribis''
| 971I
| Amur Shipyard
| 1994
| 
| 
|
| Construction halted at 42% in 1996,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://regnum.ru/news/1161752.html |title=Владимир Путин пригласил слесаря-монтажника |trans-title=Vladimir Putin invited a fitter from the Amur Shipyard to a meeting |language=ru |website=[[REGNUM News Agency]] |access-date=2017-07-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160407023857/http://regnum.ru/news/1161752.html |archive-date=2016-04-07 |url-status=live}}</ref> may be completed and leased to India.<ref>{{cite news |first=Vladimir |last=Radyuhin |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/india-in-talks-with-russia-on-lease-of-second-nuclear-submarine/article4505333.ece |title=India in talks with Russia on lease of second nuclear submarine |date=2013-03-13 |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |access-date=2013-03-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130315193838/http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/india-in-talks-with-russia-on-lease-of-second-nuclear-submarine/article4505333.ece |archive-date=2013-03-15 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.usni.org/2013/07/08/india-interested-in-leasing-second-russian-nuclear-attack-sub |title=India Interested in Leasing Second Russian Nuclear Attack Sub |first=Sam |last=LaGrone |date=8 July 2013 |work=USNI News |access-date=19 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141217142815/http://news.usni.org/2013/07/08/india-interested-in-leasing-second-russian-nuclear-attack-sub |archive-date=17 December 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|}

==''Nerpa'' 2008 accident==
On 27&nbsp;October&nbsp;2008, it was reported that [[Russian submarine K-152|K-152 ''Nerpa'']] of the Russian [[Pacific Ocean Fleet (Russia)|Pacific Fleet]] had begun her sea trials in the [[Sea of Japan]] before handover under a lease agreement to the [[Indian Navy]].{{cn|date=February 2023}} On 8&nbsp;November&nbsp;2008, while conducting one of these trials, an accidental activation of the [[Halomethane|halon]]-based fire-extinguishing system took place in the fore section of the vessel. Within seconds the halon gas had displaced all breathable air from the compartment. As a result, 20 people (17 civilians and 3 seamen)<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/11/09/asia/russia.php |title=Accident on nuclear submarine kills 20 off eastern Russian coast |newspaper=[[International Herald Tribune]]|date=2008-11-09 |access-date=9 November 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081126072837/http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/11/09/asia/russia.php| archive-date= 26 November 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> were killed by [[asphyxiation]]. Dozens of others suffered freon-related injuries and were evacuated to an unknown port in [[Primorsky Krai]].{{cn|date=February 2023}} This was the worst accident in the Russian navy since the loss of the submarine [[Russian submarine K-141 Kursk|K-141 ''Kursk'']] in 2000. The submarine itself did not sustain any serious damage and there was no release of radiation.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/09/world/europe/09submarine.html |title=20 Dead on Russian Nuclear-Powered Submarine |newspaper=[[The New York Times]] |date=9 November 2008 |access-date=2008-11-09}}</ref>

==Lease to India==
[[File:INS Chakra.jpg|thumb|right|''Chakra'' in the open sea, flying colours of the Indian Navy]]
Three hundred Indian Navy personnel were trained in Russia for the operation of the Akula II submarine ''Nerpa''. [[India]] has finalised a deal with Russia, in which at the end of the lease of these submarines, it has an option to buy them. The submarine is named [[Russian submarine K-152 Nerpa|INS ''Chakra'']] as was the previous India-leased Soviet Charlie-I SSGN.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.digitaltoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10800&issueid=67 |title=India to get Russian nuclear submarine after 17 years |date=3 July 2008 |website=[[India Today]] |access-date=19 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081222024636/http://indiatoday.digitaltoday.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10800&issueid=67 |archive-date=22 December 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Chakra'' was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy on 4 April 2012.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/ins-chakra-govt-inducts-8000-ton-russian-origin-akula-ii-class-nerpa-into-navy/articleshow/12526102.cms |title=INS Chakra: Govt inducts Russian-origin Akula II class Nerpa into Navy |newspaper=[[The Economic Times]] |date=2012-04-04 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120407070809/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics/nation/ins-chakra-govt-inducts-8000-ton-russian-origin-akula-ii-class-nerpa-into-navy/articleshow/12526102.cms |archive-date=2012-04-07 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-chakra-inducted-into-indian-navy/1/182955.html |title=INS Chakra formally inducted into Indian Navy |website=India Today |date=2012-04-04 |access-date=2012-10-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919152021/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/ins-chakra-inducted-into-indian-navy/1/182955.html |archive-date=2012-09-19 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Whereas the Russian Navy's Akula-II could be equipped with 28 nuclear-capable cruise missiles with a striking range of {{convert|3000|km|nmi mi|0|abbr=on}}, the Indian version is reportedly armed with the {{convert|300|km|nmi mi|0|abbr=on}}-range [[3M-54 Klub|Club-S]] nuclear-capable missiles.<!-- [Footnote does NOT contain any information included in the previous sentence.] --><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindu.com/2006/07/01/stories/2006070118091800.htm |title=Russia may lease nuclear submarine to India |date=1 July 2006 |access-date=1 July 2006 |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060717105158/http://www.hindu.com/2006/07/01/stories/2006070118091800.htm |archive-date=17 July 2006 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Missiles with ranges greater than {{convert|300|km|nmi mi|0|abbr=on}} cannot be exported due to arms control restrictions, since Russia is a signatory to the [[Missile Technology Control Regime|MTCR treaty]].

Russia said in December 2014 that it is ready to lease India more nuclear-powered submarines a day after [[President of Russia|President]] [[Vladimir Putin]] and [[Prime Minister of India|Prime Minister]] [[Narendra Modi]] pledged to deepen defence ties.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-12-12/putin-ready-to-lease-nuclear-submarines-to-india-minister-says.html |title=Putin ready to lease nuclear submarines to India, minister says |website=Bloomberg |date=12 December 2014 |access-date=14 December 2014 |first1=Natalie Obiko |last1=Pearson |first2=Anurag |last2=Kotoky |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141214165337/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-12-12/putin-ready-to-lease-nuclear-submarines-to-india-minister-says.html |archive-date=14 December 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In January 2015, it was reported that India was involved in negotiations involving the leasing of the ''Kashalot'' and the ''Iribis''.<ref name="vpk">{{cite web |url=http://vpk.name/news/124992_Indiya_vozmet_u_Rossii_v_arendu_atomnuyu_podlodku_Kashalot.html |title=Индия возьмет у России в аренду атомную подлодку "Кашалот" |trans-title=India to lease nuclear submarine "Kashalot" from Russia |language=ru |date=20 January 2015 |website=Novosti VPK |access-date=22 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150122111647/http://vpk.name/news/124992_Indiya_vozmet_u_Rossii_v_arendu_atomnuyu_podlodku_Kashalot.html |archive-date=22 January 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> 

On 7 March 2019, India and Russia signed a $3&nbsp;billion deal for lease of another ''Akula''-class nuclear-powered attack submarine. The submarine, dubbed as ''Chakra III'', should be delivered to the Indian Navy by 2025.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gady |first1=Franz-Stefan |title=India, Russia To Sign $3 Billion Nuclear Sub Deal This Week |url=https://thediplomat.com/2019/03/india-russia-to-sign-3-billion-nuclear-sub-deal-this-week/ |website=The Diplomat |access-date=6 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190305145949/https://thediplomat.com/2019/03/india-russia-to-sign-3-billion-nuclear-sub-deal-this-week/ |archive-date=5 March 2019 |date=5 March 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Pubby |first1=Manu |title=India, Russia to ink $3 billion nuclear submarine deal this week |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-russia-to-ink-3-billion-nuclear-submarine-deal-this-week/articleshow/68248638.cms |website=The Economic Times |access-date=6 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190304231035/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/india-russia-to-ink-3-billion-nuclear-submarine-deal-this-week/articleshow/68248638.cms |archive-date=4 March 2019 |location=New Delhi |date=4 March 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In June 2021, ''Nerpa'' was reported in Singapore with Indian crew aboard and on its way back to Russia, despite one year remaining of the 10-year lease, commenced in April 2012. The stated reason was problems with maintenance of the nuclear reactors.<ref name="tass.ru"/> Accordingly, the lease will not be prolonged after 2022, as was initially expected.

==Gallery==
<gallery mode="packed">
File:Akula class submarine.JPG|Submarine K-322 ''Kashalot''
File:Парад кораблей 7 АПЛ Магадан.JPG|An ''Akula''-class submarine during the [[Navy Day (Russia)|Russian Navy Day]] in 2009
File:АПЛ "Кузбасс".jpg|Submarine K-419 ''Kuzbass''
File:К-317 «Пантера».jpg|Submarine K-317 ''Pantera''
</gallery>

==See also==
* [[List of Soviet and Russian submarine classes]]
* [[List of submarine classes in service]]
* [[Future of the Russian Navy]]
* [[Cruise missile submarine]]

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Commons category|Akula class submarines}}
*{{cite web |url=http://www.deepstorm.ru/DeepStorm.files/45-92/nts/971/list.htm |title=Проект 971 "Щука-Б" (NATO – "Akula", "Improved Akula", "Akula II", "Akula III") |language=ru |website=DeepStorm.ru}}
*{{cite web |url=http://www.subsim.com/ssr/akula2.html |title=AKULA! The Soviet Shark |first=Neal |last=Stevens |date=November 1999 |website=SUBSIM Review}}

{{Akula class submarine}}
{{Soviet and Russian submarines after 1945}}
{{Current SSN}}
{{Ship classes of the Indian Navy}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Akula Class Submarine}}
[[Category:Submarine classes]]
[[Category:Akula-class submarines| ]]
[[Category:Russian and Soviet Navy submarine classes]]
[[Category:Nuclear submarines of the Soviet Navy]]