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Navy's Trident submarines (now Ohio Class). At the time it was being built, in the 1970s, the new Typhoon class represented an effort to keep pace with the U.S. (The Russian name is Akula, meaning shark, not to be confused with the NATO designated AKULA Class attack submarine). The 'Typhoon' class got it's NATO reporting name (TYPHOON) before it even hit the water, using the name used in US-Russian arms control discussions. There was concern that regular torpedoes couldn’t sunk it. Even in defence circles ot was a subject of research, speculation and wonder. The appearance of the Typhoon captured the West’s imagination. In its day, the significance of the submarine wasn't only its size. Despite being reported as no longer in service, TK-208 Dmitriy Donskoy was observed on the surface in the White Sea on July 17 2022. Reports of the last Typhoon being out of service may be slightly premature, but the bigger picture rings true. But the overall story is clear, it is the end of the era. As we have come to expect for these reports from Russia. The exact details, whether it is already decommissioned, or will be later this year, are unclear. Its distinctive silhouette has adorned many western posters and website headers.
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Regardless of your politics, there has always been a air of respect for the gigantic Russian submarine in defense circles. The world's largest submarine, the undisputed king of submarines, is finally being decommissioned. The last Pr.941 TYPHOON Class boat, Dmitriy Donskoy (TK-208), is reportedly no longer in active service. End Of The TYPHOON Era: World's Largest Submarine Retires
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