SEVERODVINSK. Nov 29 (Interfax-AVN) - Problems with funding of the state defense orders are braking the modernization of Project 667 BRDM nuclear propulsion ballistic missile submarines, currently in jigs of the Zvyozdochka plant for repairs.
"The program provides for repairs of the subs to be completed by 2007. But is may be disrupted for the reason of unstable funding," a source at the enterprise told Interfax.
He emphasized that despite the statements made by top-ranking naval officers, neither the Tula nor Bryansk SSBNs will not be returned to service before year end.
According to him, the Tula has just passed part of the tests and the final stage of trials is scheduled for December. As soon as this stage is finished, the sub will be ready for operation, but no acceptance certificate will be signed until the tests of its new weapons suite are completed, which are to be held in the Barents Sea.
Experts say the subs' characteristics were improved in general, with their service lives extended by another 10 years.
"The greatest challenge we have to face with the modernization of the K-117 Bryansk sub. The money earmarked for the repairs was used up back in spring. So, under the existing circumstances with funding, the submarine will mot have been ready to operate even by 2007," the source said.
He said that the sub is in the repair workshops now, where most of repairs of the hull and equipment have been done. However, the plant has to pay specialists for the work done from its own funds.
The Tula and Bryansk submarines of Project 667 BRDM Delphin (Delta IV in NATO classification) were built at the Sevmashpredpriyatiye from Severodvinsk. A total of seven such submarines have been built for the Russian Navy so far. Two of subs of this class, namely the Verkhoturye and the Yekaterinburg, were overhauled at Zvezdochka earlier.
The Tula and Bryansk subs are third-generation SSBNs, and have been in service with Russia's Northern Fleet since 1990 and 1987 respectively.