Ukraine Claims Major Intelligence Coup, Gains Access to Secret Data on Russia’s New Nuclear Submarine

In a surprising development that could shake up naval dynamics in the Arctic and beyond, Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR) has claimed a successful operation that breached Russian naval security. According to HUR, the operation resulted in the acquisition of classified documents related to Russia’s newest nuclear-powered submarine, the Knyaz Pozharsky, just days after it officially entered service.

The Knyaz Pozharsky, a Project 955A Borei-A class nuclear missile submarine, is one of the most advanced vessels in the Russian Navy’s strategic arsenal. Built over nearly a decade and finally commissioned in July 2025, it is equipped with 16 RSM-56 Bulava submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) — each capable of carrying nuclear warheads. This submarine is part of Russia’s Northern Fleet, operating out of Gadzhievo, Murmansk, and plays a key role in Russia’s nuclear deterrent posture.

But now, that very deterrence capability may be under question. Ukrainian intelligence operatives claim to have secured internal documents that detail critical technical and operational aspects of the submarine. These reportedly include:

• Crew lists with personal details and fitness reports

• Combat protocols and instructions

• Engineering schematics of onboard systems

• Emergency procedures, including evacuation methods for injured crew

• Confidential crew manuals and regulatory documents

Some of these documents have already been published by HUR, raising alarms about the potential exposure of weaknesses in the submarine’s design and operational strategy. HUR argues that the data reveals technical limitations and could affect other submarines in the same class, posing a broader threat to the Russian Navy's strategic security.

The Project 955A Borei-A class is regarded as Russia's most advanced and stealthy nuclear submarine platform, designed to avoid detection and ensure second-strike capability. The Knyaz Pozharsky is one of five improved variants built under this project, each serving as a mobile, underwater nuclear launch platform — essential in the event of a large-scale conflict.

Russia’s Ministry of Defence has not commented on the reported breach, and the authenticity of the released documents has not yet been independently verified. However, the sheer detail and timing of the leak — so close to the submarine’s induction — has sparked significant concern among Western analysts.

NATO officials have long been monitoring Russian submarine movements in the Arctic, especially as Moscow ramps up its military activity in the region. The Arctic is increasingly seen as a potential flashpoint, given its strategic shipping lanes, natural resources, and military importance. This intelligence leak could offer NATO valuable insights into Russia’s underwater capabilities and may prompt further shifts in regional military planning.

If confirmed, this breach marks one of the most significant intelligence wins for Ukraine in the ongoing conflict — not only as a morale boost but also as a potential strategic asset for Ukraine’s allies.

As the war continues and espionage plays a bigger role on both sides, the exposure of secret Russian submarine data could reshape how both militaries — and their global partners — plan for the future.