In an interview to the VPK weekly, Yuri Solomonov, the chief designer of the Bulava missile (as well as Topol-M) defends the system, arguing that failures at the early stages of development are fairly common (which is, of course, true). He indicated that at least some of the problems were related to the lack of technological discipline and poor quality control during missile production. Other problems were attributed to the new technical decisions implemented in the missile.
Solomonov said he is optimistic about the ability of his design bureau to complete the work on Bulava in time. As I understand, that used to mean that the first submarine with the Bulava missile would be operational in 2008. I have my doubts about this, but it's not impossible. At least, the first Project 955 submarine is expected to begin sea trials in less than two weeks.
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"at least some of the problems were related to the lack of technological discipline and poor quality control during missile production."
They are produced at the same plant, as Topol missiles - so, what about Topol quality?
I do not beleive that Bulava's problems are due to poor quality control. It has more to do with the submerged condition of the missile on which Russia does not seem to have complete mastery and understanding of the technical problems. Sooner or later however, Russia will succeed in overcoming them. But valuable time will be lost due to delays. Russia will do well to first achieve sufficiency in Topol M's to deter the U.S. from any adventure while proceding slowly but surely on Bulava's
Hey guys,
do you have any information about this submarine?
Project 210 Losharik
Any pictures or any links are welcome...
As it was planned earlier, today, April 15 2007, "Yuri Dolgorukiy", the first SSBN of "Project 955 Borey" class, is out of slipway.