Steve Balestrieri

2 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Steve Balestrieri

Key Points – The US Navy’s Virginia-class Block VI attack submarines represent a significant leap in undersea warfare capability, designed to maintain American dominance. -The subs are designed to ensure they can win a fight against Russia, but also China, North Korea, Iran, or any other nation. -These boats feature enhanced stealth, advanced sonar (including a bow conformal array), and importantly, the Virginia Payload Module (VPM).

2 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Steve Balestrieri

Key Points – Russia launched the “Perm,” its newest Yasen-M class nuclear-powered attack submarine, on March 27, 2025, marking it as the first Russian SSN officially equipped with 3M22 Zircon hypersonic cruise missiles as a standard feature. -The Yasen-M class, powered by an advanced, quiet KTP-6-185SP nuclear reactor with a 25-30 year core life, boasts a vertical launch system for Zircon, Kalibr, and Oniks missiles, alongside torpedo tubes.

3 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Steve Balestrieri

Key Points – Russia’s Poseidon (Status-6) is a nuclear-powered, nuclear-armed autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) or torpedo, designed to overcome US missile defense systems. -Unveiled by President Putin in 2018, it reportedly can travel at high speeds (54 knots) and great depths (1,000m). -Poseidon is intended to deliver a massive nuclear warhead, potentially a cobalt bomb, capable of causing widespread radioactive contamination or a “nuclear tsunami” against coastal cities.

4 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Steve Balestrieri

Key Points – Russia’s Delta IV-class (Project 667BDRM Delfin) nuclear ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), introduced in the 1980s, remain the backbone of its sea-based nuclear deterrent. -These submarines are designed to hit the U.S. or NATO with nuclear missiles if called upon-Six of these “boomers” are still in service with the Northern Fleet, armed with R-29 Vysota family SLBMs, allowing for deterrence patrols from the Arctic Ocean.

4 days ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Steve Balestrieri

Key Points – The US Navy cannot afford to retire its aging Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) on schedule due to significant delays and cost overruns in the Columbia-class replacement program. -The Ohio-class, a cornerstone of the US nuclear triad, is nearing the end of its extended service life, with the first retirements planned for 2027. -These submarines have one critical mission: to deter Russia, China and North Korea from ever thinking about nuclear war.