NATO boss mocks Russian navy, which is on the hunt forRed October“the nearest mechanic”

Recent events have cast a shadow over the operational capabilities of the Russian submarine Novorossiysk. When the Kilo-class submarine surfaced near the French coast, Russian authorities hastily dismissed any claims of malfunction, asserting that the vessel's emergence was merely a compliance measure with maritime navigation rules in the English Channel. However, social media channels, often tied to Russian security sources, painted a different picture. Reports from The Maritime Executive reveal that whispers of a significant issue aboard the Novorossiysk have begun to circulate. Allegations suggest the submarine may be grappling with a fuel leak, prompting it to surface to manage flooded compartments. Concerns have escalated as some sources indicate that the submarine, which entered service in 2012, might lack both the necessary spare parts and qualified personnel to address the malfunction, raising fears of a potential explosion hazard. Upon surfacing, the Novorossiysk was closely monitored by a French warship, followed by an English vessel and a Dutch hydrographic ship, along with an NH90 combat helicopter. The Dutch navy issued a statement confirming that the Novorossiysk, alongside a tugboat named Yakov Grebelskiy, had exited the Dutch Exclusive Economic Zone. While Russian vessels have the legal right to navigate international waters, the Dutch navy emphasized the need for vigilance to prevent any potential sabotage of submarine infrastructure.