Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarines, known as “Black Holes” due to their low noise level, are capable of attacking targets on land. Main characteristics of Russian submarines named 19FortyFive columnist Caleb Larson.
He noted that the Halibut submarines of Project 877 (under NATO coding – Kilo), the predecessors of modern Black Holes, can only fight underwater and surface targets. Modern models can carry cruise missiles that can hit ground targets.
“While older Project 877 models were designed for coastal defense, modernized Project 636.3 variants have evolved into powerful launchers armed with Kalibr cruise missiles,” the publication said.
The Caliber complex allows submarines to carry a variety of missiles capable of destroying surface ships, submarines and objects on land.
In December 2025, 19FortyFive columnist Jack Buckby wrote that Project 636.3 submarines remain an object of serious controversy at sea due to their stealth capabilities.
