Flash Info: Netherlands Navy Shadows Russian Submarine Novorossiysk and Frigate Boikiy in North Sea.

On January 10, 2025, the Royal Netherlands Navy (Koninklijke Marine) reported that it had successfully shadowed a Russian submarine, the Improved Kilo-class Novorossiysk (hull number B-261), and its accompanying Steregushchiy-class frigate the Boikiy (hull number 822), in the North Sea. The operation was carried out by the Dutch frigate Zr. Ms. Friesland and the maritime attack helicopter NH90, highlighting the growing concerns about Russian military presence in European waters.
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Photo of the Russian submarine Novorossiysk taken by the Dutch Navy NH90 helicopter crew. (Picture source Netherlands MoD)

The Novorossiysk is a Russian Improved Kilo-class submarines, which are an advanced version of the earlier Kilo-class, designed for greater stealth and operational effectiveness. The submarine was traveling from the Mediterranean Sea toward northern Europe, passing through the Dutch Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the North Sea. Known for their quiet operation and ability to remain undetected, these submarines are ideally suited for covert missions, including reconnaissance and intelligence gathering. The Novorossiysk’s stealth capabilities make it a significant strategic asset for Russia, able to conduct operations in close proximity to European waters without being easily detected.

Accompanying the submarine was the Russian frigate Boikiy, a Project 20380 Steregushchiy-class vessel, designed to perform a range of missions including anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-aircraft warfare (AAW), and surface combat. The Boikiy is equipped with advanced radar and sonar systems, as well as vertical launch systems (VLS) for surface-to-air missiles. This frigate also carries anti-ship missiles and close-in weapons systems for self-defense. Its primary role is to escort and protect high-value naval assets, making it an ideal partner for the Novorossiysk as it transited through the North Sea.

The presence of both the Novorossiysk and the Boikiy in the North Sea underscores Russia’s intent to maintain a strong naval presence in these strategically important waters. The North Sea is a critical maritime corridor for European trade and security, connecting various NATO and EU member states. For the Russian military, these waters represent a valuable route for projecting power and maintaining operational flexibility. Moreover, the proximity of the Russian assets to vital underwater infrastructure such as communication cables and energy pipelines heightens concerns about potential espionage or sabotage operations, which could disrupt European economies and security.

The shadowing operation conducted by the Royal Netherlands Navy reflects the ongoing maritime security challenges faced by NATO and European countries. The growing capabilities of Russian submarines and surface warships in the region signal an increasing threat to the security of European waters. In particular, the presence of Russian submarines like the Novorossiysk raises alarms due to their ability to operate undetected and target critical infrastructure.

The Novorossiysk is part of Russia's broader strategy of modernizing its naval forces to assert dominance in contested maritime environments. With its quiet operation, advanced weaponry, and covert capabilities, the Improved Kilo-class submarine is capable of launching strikes against surface targets or engaging in intelligence-gathering operations without being easily detected. Likewise, the Boikiy frigate’s multi-role capabilities provide Russia with a robust tool for defending its submarines and projecting power in contested waters.

As tensions in Europe continue to rise, NATO and European states are likely to strengthen their maritime defense capabilities. The increasing presence of Russian naval forces, including both submarines and surface vessels, highlights the importance of maintaining control over strategic sea lanes and safeguarding vital infrastructure from potential threats. The Netherlands' shadowing of the Novorossiysk and Boikiy serves as a reminder of the complex security challenges facing Europe in an era of growing naval power and regional instability.