A Russian submarine was forced to surface off the French coast last week due to a severe technical malfunction, prompting a swift surveillance response from NATO.
The B-261 Novorossiysk, a diesel-electric vessel, reportedly experienced a critical fuel system failure. Fuel began leaking directly into the bilge, creating a hazardous and potentially explosive situation.
According to Russian military sources cited by the Telegram channel VChK-OGPU, the crew lacked the necessary spare parts and qualified specialists to repair the damage. This made it impossible for them to resolve the problem independently.
NATO promptly deployed a French Navy frigate to monitor the Russian vessel near the coast of Brittany. This action reflects standard procedures for tracking foreign military craft in waters overseen by the alliance.
NATO Maritime Command noted the submarine was operating on the surface, making it visible to detection systems. This posture is a departure from typical submarine operations, which prioritize remaining submerged.
The alliance reiterated its commitment to collective defense. “NATO stands ready to defend our Alliance with constant vigilance and maritime awareness across the Atlantic,” it stated via X, formerly Twitter.
We. Are. Watching. 👀
📍 Atlantic Ocean
⚓ A French Navy frigate 🇫🇷 conducts surveillance of the Alliance’s maritime approaches, marking the presence of a Russian submarine 🇷🇺 operating on the surface off the coast of Brittany. NATO stands ready to defend our Alliance with…— NATO Maritime Command (@NATO_MARCOM) October 9, 2025
Built in St. Petersburg in 2010 and commissioned into the Russian Navy in 2014, the B-261 Novorossiysk’s unexpected appearance highlights ongoing Russian naval operations near Europe’s Atlantic approaches.
The incident underscores a growing focus on submarine forces in the Western theater. It also emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced maritime awareness among NATO allies.