The Delta-class submarines were Soviet nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines developed in several Project 667 variants. They succeeded earlier Yankee-class boats and were designed around longer-range submarine-launched ballistic missiles, allowing patrols closer to Soviet-controlled waters. This changed Soviet strategic naval posture by reducing the need to push SSBNs deep into hostile ocean areas.
Delta I, II, III, and IV variants reflected a continuing effort to improve missile capacity, launch range, navigation, and quieting. The distinctive raised missile deck accommodated large ballistic missiles while preserving a double-hull Soviet submarine architecture. Later Delta III and Delta IV boats carried more capable missiles and remained relevant long after earlier variants retired.
Delta-class boats formed a major part of Soviet and later Russian strategic deterrence for decades. Their patrol concept, based on protected bastions and long-range missiles, became central to Russian SSBN operations. Even as Borei-class submarines entered service, Delta IV boats remained important for understanding continuity in Russian nuclear force structure.
| Name | Country | Status | Service Year | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
RFS Novomoskovsk (K-407) | 🇷🇺Russian Federation | ACTIVE | 1990 – Present | Delta IV-class SSBN |
RFS Tula (K-114) | 🇷🇺Russian Federation | ACTIVE | 1987 – Present | Delta IV-class SSBN |
RFS Yekaterinburg (K-84) | 🇷🇺Russian Federation | RESERVE | 1985 – Present | Delta IV-class SSBN, fire-damaged 2011 |
RFS Verkhoturye (K-51) | 🇷🇺Russian Federation | ACTIVE | 1984 – Present | Delta IV-class SSBN |
RFS Ryazan (K-44) | 🇷🇺Russian Federation | ACTIVE | 1982 – Present | Delta IV-class SSBN (Project 667BDRM) |
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