Delays and ongoing technical problems in Russia’s Amur submarine programme are prompting countries including Morocco and India to reconsider potential purchases, a defence report says.
The report, published by 19fortyfive.com and written by defence analyst Steve Balestrieri, states that the Amur-class submarine has yet to secure any export orders, despite being promoted as a more advanced successor to the Kilo-class.
India was among the countries to assess the Amur-1650 as part of its naval modernisation plans. However, it opted instead for France’s Scorpène-class submarines, citing concerns that the Russian project could face delays beyond 2030.
Morocco also held discussions with Russia over a possible acquisition, but no agreement has been reached. The report notes that no completed Amur submarine currently exists.
It says continued development delays and technical uncertainty have led Rabat to take a cautious approach, particularly as alternative offers are available from European suppliers such as France and Germany.
Russia has promoted the Amur as a next-generation platform, featuring air-independent propulsion, vertical launch systems for cruise missiles and improved acoustic stealth. However, these capabilities have yet to be demonstrated in an operational model.
The programme has also faced technical challenges, including issues with combat management systems and their integration with sonar, problems previously identified in the Lada-class submarines.
According to the report, these setbacks have raised concerns within the Russian Navy about further investment, weakening the project’s export prospects.
Western sanctions imposed on Russia following the war in Ukraine have added further pressure, restricting access to key components and slowing production.
The report describes the programme as facing a structural crisis, with limited progress deterring potential buyers. Countries such as China and Argentina, which had shown earlier interest, have not pursued agreements.
