On January 22, 2009, the Zvezdochka shipyard formally handed over the K-18 Karelia submarine to the Northern Fleet. The Project 667BDRM/Dleta IV class submarine had been in overhaul since August 2004. It is now equipped with Sineva modification of the R-29RM missile.
It was reported earlier that Karelia conducted 38 patrols and traveled 140 thousand miles during its 15 years in service so far. This time the number of patrols is reported as 12 "combat services" and 26 "combat duty patrols". It's not quite clear what's the difference between these. The submarine also took part in 14 missile launch exercises.
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Pavel , after the upgrade which looks comprehensive will she remain operational for atleast 15 years ?
Did they refuel both its N-reactor as part of upgrade ?
Combat services = training exercises/missions
Combat duty patrols = strategic deployments
"Pavel , after the upgrade which looks comprehensive will she remain operational for atleast 15 years ?
Did they refuel both its N-reactor as part of upgrade ?" - Austin Joseph
At least 15 years. It’s a sure bet.
After a more then four years long overhaul, refuelling her reactor would also be a sure bet.