Russian Submarine Struck by Storm Shadow Missile Completes Hull Repair

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The diesel-electric submarine Rostov-on-Don (Project 636.3 Varshavka), which sustained significant damage from a precision strike involving the Franco-British Storm Shadow missile in 2023, has reached a critical milestone in its recovery.

Disabled during an attack at a Russian naval facility in Crimea, the Kilo-class submarine has completed the initial stage of dock restoration for its hull and plating. It has now entered the phase of surface restoration, aiming to restore full operational combat readiness by 2025.

Ukraine had claimed back then that the September 13 attack left the Kilo-class submarine in a “irreversibly damaged” state. Notably, the strike marked the first instance of damage inflicted on a Russian submarine, and the worst since the sinking of the cruiser ‘Moskva’ in 2022.

British Intelligence also asserted that the submarine sustained "catastrophic" damage, estimating that the efforts to restore operational status could span many years and cost hundreds of millions of dollars. British authorities accused Russian officials of minimizing the extent of damage to their vessels, particularly the submarine.

Following the attack, satellite imagery revealed extensive external damage to the Rostov-on-Don submarine, with visible impacts suggesting multiple hits. The incident prompted assessments from military analysts and investigative groups, including the Conflict Intelligence Team (CIT), who documented the damage through detailed photographic evidence.

Upon inspection, initial photographs revealed a substantial hole in the bow, indicating a direct impact. Observers noted severe damage near the propulsion area and hull, raising concerns about potential interior harm. Experts suggested the breach likely led to flooding, endangering sensitive equipment aboard. Analysts speculated that the extent of damage could render the submarine irreparable, potentially requiring extensive decommissioning or salvage-based repairs.

Initially assessed as potentially irreparable, the submarine's restoration has been progressing under the oversight of Sevastopol Shipyard, affiliated with Zvyozdochka Shipyard. Russia’s government-controlled TASS reported in January this year that the submarine would complete repairs in about six months.

The Rostov-on-Don is capable of launching Kalibr land attack cruise missiles, plays a strategic role within the Black Sea Fleet. With ongoing restoration efforts, it is anticipated to regain operational capability, including the deployment of its 3M14T missile system against Ukrainian targets in the region.