what I wish I knew about the KK submarine disaster and why it matters today on August 12th 2000 the Russian submarine k141 K experienced not one but two catastrophic explosions during a training exercise in the barren sea this Oscar II class nuclear powered sub was one of the Russian Navy's most advanced carrying 118 crew members the first explosion likely caused by a torpedo failure was followed by a massive second explosion tragically All crew members perished some survived the initial blast only to die from asphixiation as rescue efforts failed Russian authorities delayed acknowledging the disaster and initially refused foreign help outdated equipment and harsh conditions hindered rescue attempts by the time International assistance was accepted it was too late the disaster led to public outcry and calls for military reform in 2001 the wreck was raised and the crew buried with honors memorials now stand in Russia reminding us of the risks faced by Naval personnel