The Indian Navy will receive an Akula-II Class Nerpa nuclear attack submarine in early 2010 following its initial service with Russia’s Pacific Fleet in December 2009.
The submarine has been undergoing refurbishment, following an accident in November 2008, where an onboard fire killed three crew and 17 shipyard workers.
According to a top Russian naval official, the nuclear submarine has undergone a range of sea trials and final tests will begin in late October or early November, after which, it will re-enter into service in the pacific fleet, reports RIA Novosti.
The official said that the Indian submariners would undergo a course of training together with Russian officials in early 2010 before the submarine is inducted.
The Indian Navy will christen the leased Russian submarine INS Chakra.
India has paid $650m for the ten-year lease of the 12,000t K-152 Nerpa attack submarine, which is considered the quietest and deadliest of all Russian nuclear-powered attack submarines.
