Russia plans to test Poseidon nuclear underwater drone this summer.

According to information published by RIA Novosti on June 26, 2023, testing of the Poseidon underwater drone is scheduled to commence this summer with the participation of the Belgorod nuclear submarine.
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Artist rendering of the future Poseidon nuclear Unmanned Underwater Vehicle. (Picture source: Russian MoD)

The experimental nuclear submarine, known as Project 09852 Belgorod, is set to be commissioned into the Russian Navy in 2023. The testing will specifically focus on the functioning of the drone's nuclear power plant.

Notably, the reactor installations of Poseidon have undergone successful testing, with their reliability and safety confirmed. Additionally, the regular carrier of Poseidon drones will be the Khabarovsk submarine, currently under construction at the Sevmash shipyard.

Poseidon UUV

The Poseidon underwater drone, designed by the Rubin Design Bureau and other defense industrial enterprises of the Russian Federation, was initially designed in 2015 and is currently in production as of 2023.

It is a formidable device with impressive specifications, weighing up to 100 metric tons and measuring up to 20 meters (65.6 ft) in length, with a diameter of up to 2 meters.

The drone is speculated to possess a blast yield of 2 megatons or more, making it an immensely powerful weapon. It is powered by a liquid metal reactor with a minimum output of 15 megawatts and utilizes electric transmission for propulsion.

With an operational range that is practically unlimited, the Poseidon can operate at depths of up to 1,000 meters (3280 ft) and achieve speeds of up to 100 knots (185 km/h or 115 MPH).

In terms of guidance, Poseidon combines artificial intelligence with satellite control systems, enhancing its precision and capabilities. This advanced underwater drone is launched from a submarine, serving as its primary launch platform.