U-475 Black Widow, Soviet submarine museum in Strood, England
Description
U-475 Black Widow is a Soviet Foxtrot-class submarine now moored on the River Medway in Kent. The vessel features several torpedo tubes in the bow and stern, along with navigation equipment from the 1960s.
History
The vessel was launched in 1967 and initially operated with the Soviet Northern Fleet before transferring to the Baltic Fleet. After decommissioning, it arrived in England in 1994 and later opened to the public as a museum.
Culture
The crew quarters show the tight conditions where up to 78 sailors lived during patrols lasting several months. Original bunks and personal areas offer insight into daily life underwater during the Cold War.
Practical
The museum sits near the town boundary between Strood and Rochester, reachable by a short walk along the riverside. Access inside involves climbing through narrow hatches and steep ladders, so sturdy footwear is necessary.
Did you know?
The naming ceremony took place while the vessel was sailing to its first deployment, an unusual practice in the Soviet Navy. Today, visitors can still see Cyrillic lettering at various points throughout the interior.
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