MOSCOW, November 21. /TASS/. The state trials of the Project 955A (Borei-A) strategic nuclear-powered submarine Emperor Alexander III intended to join the Pacific Fleet are nearing completion, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu said on Tuesday.

"Three latest Borei-A nuclear-powered submarine cruisers have already joined the Navy’s combat inventory. The state trials of the strategic missile-carrying submarine Emperor Alexander III designated for the Pacific Fleet are nearing completion. The share of advanced ships in the nuclear triad has reached 100%," the defense chief said at a Defense Ministry board meeting.

This year, three submarines armed with Kalibr cruise missile systems will join the Russian submarine forces, Shoigu said.

The Project 955A (Borei-A) strategic nuclear-powered submarine cruiser Emperor Alexander III is a serial-produced sub built at the Sevmash Shipyard in Russia’s northwest. The strategic nuclear-powered submarine carries 16 Bulava ballistic missiles and advanced torpedo armament.

Project 955A nuclear-powered submarines are fourth-generation subs operational in the Russian Pacific and Northern Fleets. By now, three Borei-A strategic nuclear-powered subs operate in the Russian Navy, another sub is at the final stage of trials and three others are currently under construction.