Russian Kilo-Class Submarine Novorossiysk Surfaces Near Gibraltar Due to Critical Fuel Leak, Raising Explosion Fears

Russian Submarine Faces Explosion Risk Near Gibraltar

The Russian Kilo-class submarine Novorossiysk (B-261) has reportedly surfaced in the Mediterranean Sea, close to the Strait of Gibraltar, due to a severe fuel system malfunction. Reports indicate that fuel is leaking directly into the vessel's hold, creating a substantial risk of explosion. The incident, which emerged in late September 2025, has drawn international attention and concern.

Details of the Incident and Vessel

The Novorossiysk, a Project 636.3 Improved Kilo II-class diesel-electric attack submarine, is a relatively modern vessel, commissioned on August 22, 2014, and is part of Russia's Black Sea Fleet. Measuring 242 feet (74 meters) in length and manned by a crew of 52, the submarine is capable of carrying nuclear-capable Kalibr cruise missiles. The critical malfunction involves a fuel leak into the bilge compartment, leading to an accumulation of volatile fuel.

According to the Russian Telegram channel VChk-OGPU, known for its insider information, the crew onboard reportedly lacks the necessary spare parts and qualified specialists to address the issue. This dire situation suggests that the crew's only viable option to prevent a catastrophic explosion might be to pump the accumulating fuel directly into the Mediterranean Sea.

Concerns and International Monitoring

The potential for an onboard explosion has raised significant safety and environmental concerns. The situation has drawn unnerving parallels to the 2000 Kursk submarine disaster, where explosions sank the Oscar II-class submarine and resulted in the loss of all 118 sailors.

The presence of the distressed submarine near the strategically vital Strait of Gibraltar has led to close monitoring by international naval forces. British Royal Navy officials and NATO assets have been observing the situation, with French and Spanish warships also reported in the area. As of the latest reports, Russian authorities have not officially confirmed the incident.