russian propaganda media report that the Federal Security Service (FSB) in the Leningrad Region allegedly thwarted an attempt to smuggle components for diesel engines used in Varshavyanka-class submarines. The operation was allegedly to be carried out by a russian citizen for a foreign customer.
At first glance, the story seems interesting because it involves components of a submarine propulsion system. However, a closer examination raises doubts about its validity.
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Soviet and russian submarines of Projects 877 and 636.6, commonly known as the Varshavyanka class, are fitted with 4-2DL42M diesel engines. These engines are derived from the D42 family of diesel engines produced by the Kolomna Locomotive Works for railway locomotives.
There are currently only two countries that operate Project 877 Varshavianka submarines and have strained relations with russia. These are Poland and Romania, both NATO members in Europe, which have not indicated any intention of restoring the full combat capability of their Soviet-built submarines.
In the case of Romania, the Soviet-built Varshavyanka submarine Delfinul was reportedly offered for repair by russia in exchange for grain supplies, although the arrangement was never implemented.
Although this submarine has not been deployed at sea for over 25 years due to its poor condition, the Romanian military has shown no intention of changing the situation. Even a non-combat-ready submarine can still serve as a symbol of prestige, which is why this vessel has not yet been decommissioned.
The Polish Navy submarine Orzeł was built more than 40 years ago, and although it is still technically able to go to sea periodically, it cannot carry out combat missions. Against this backdrop, Poland is pursuing the Orka program, through which it aims to acquire new submarines capable of launching missiles with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers.
Given this context, it is likely that the russian FSB is attempting to construct a case around the alleged attempt to "illegally export" components for Varshavyanka diesel engines in order to "meet its quota."
Ivan Kyrychevskyi, serviceman of the 413th Raid Regiment of the Unmanned Systems Forces of Ukraine and weapons expert at Defense Express.
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