VietNamNet Bridge – Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung yesterday, May 13, inspected the progress of Viet Nam's Kilo-class submarine, which is being tested in Kaliningrad, Russia.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung inspects the progress of Viet Nam's Kilo-class submarine, which is being tested in Kaliningrad, Russia.

This is the first of six Kilo-class submarines that Viet Nam contracted to buy from Russia during Dung's visit to the country in 2009.

Under the contract, the Russian side is also responsible for training sailors and supplying necessary equipment for the submarines.

The Kilo-636 submarine, named Ha Noi, was built in Admiralty Verfi Shipyards in St Petersburg and is being tested near Svetlyi port in Kaliningrad. It has successfully made 23 test dives.

Having a displacement of 3,000-3,950 tonnes, the submarine can operate at a maximum depth of 300m and at a range of 6,000-7,500 nautical miles for 45 days and nights with a crew of 52. It is said to have the quietest engine in the world, a great choice for reconnaissance work and patrols.

PM Nguyen Tan Dung and with crew men of the submarine.

Talking with sailors on board, the PM said he hoped they rapidly grasped the modern technology so they can master the vessel after it is transferred to Viet Nam.

Captain Major Nguyen Van Quan thanked the Party, State and people for their care for the crew.

Later, Dung told the Russian media that Kaliningrad was such a peaceful and hospitable city. He said the Vietnamese people would never forget the support that Russia had given them during their past struggle for independence.

He said Russia's supply of submarines to Viet Nam was not only a trade deal but also reflected the friendship between the two countries.

Source: VNS