Komsomolets Submarine: Ongoing Radiation Leak and Environmental Monitoring

The Komsomolets (K-278), a Soviet nuclear-powered attack submarine, sank on April 7, 1989, in the Norwegian Sea, resulting in the loss of 42 crew members. Today, it lies at a depth of 5,511 feet (1,680 meters) with two nuclear weapons and a leaking reactor. Recent research from Norway’s Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority and its Institute of Marine Research indicates that while the submarine is leaking radioactive material, the situation is being managed effectively.

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In July 2019, researchers conducted a comprehensive survey of the Komsomolets wreck using remotely operated submersibles equipped with sonar, video, and water sampling tools. Their analysis revealed an active leak of radioactive material from a ventilation pipe, with visible emissions captured on video. The study, published in the *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences*, confirmed that the nuclear fuel in the reactor is corroding, leading to the release of radionuclides. However, the researchers noted that the rapid dilution of these materials in seawater has prevented any significant impact on local marine life or the environment.

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Following the submarine's sinking, Russian authorities prioritized securing the wreck and mitigating environmental risks. Svetlana Savranskaya, director of Russia programs for George Washington University’s National Security Archive, emphasized that the Soviet leadership, particularly under Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin, aimed to be seen as responsible international actors, learning from the Chernobyl disaster. In the early 1990s, Russian expeditions sealed exposed areas of the submarine with titanium patches, which have proven effective over the decades.

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Norway has taken over the monitoring of the Komsomolets wreck in recent years. Researchers, including Justin Gwynn, advocate for further investigations to understand the cause of the radioactive leak and its variability over time. Gwynn expressed concerns about the potential risks of salvaging the submarine, suggesting that any disturbance could lead to more significant contamination.

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Despite the apparent success of the remediation efforts, some experts express skepticism about the transparency of the information shared by Russian authorities. Savranskaya noted that while there was a commitment to provide information, certain technological secrets related to the unique submarine may have been withheld.

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The Komsomolets submarine remains a significant environmental concern due to its leaking reactor. Ongoing monitoring by Norwegian authorities and the commitment to further research aim to ensure that the situation remains under control while addressing any potential risks associated with the submarine's decay.

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• “We were very surprised to actually see something coming out of the ventilation pipe where previous Russian investigations had detected releases from the reactor,” — Justin Gwynn, Senior Scientist, Norwegian Government

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• “They saw it as one of their top priorities to make sure that it was secured, that it was cleaned up, that it was transparent, and that they could be trusted by other international actors.” — Svetlana Savranskaya, Director, National Security Archive

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• “Any potential release to the atmosphere during any salvage operation could result in contamination deposited on land that would likely have far greater and longer-term impact,” — Justin Gwynn, Senior Scientist, Norwegian Government

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