Faulty Parts In Russian Nuclear Powered Submarine Affecting Readiness, Says India

The Indian Navy has requested Russia to substitute faulty parts on the leased nuclear-powered submarine, Nerpa, as they affect its operational readiness, according to local news reports. The Times of India, citing sources, reported that certain components needed replacement without going into specifics but added that they “were critical for the operations of the submarine”. The Indian Navy inducted the INS Chakra, Russian-built Akula II class nuclear attack submarine, in April. In 2004, Moscow and New Delhi signed the lease contract worth $900 million, in which India agreed to fund part of the Nerpa's construction. However, in 2008, after the start of sea trials, 20 sailors were killed on board after a toxic gas leak when the automatic fire extinguishing system malfunctioned. The Nerpa was finally handed over to India in January after prolonged and costly repairs. The submarine has a maximum speed of 30 knots and a maximum operating depth of 600 m, while its endurance is 100 days with a crew of 73. The vessel is armed with four 533-mm and four 650-mm torpedo tubes, although it cannot carry nuclear weapons under the lease provisions.