Soviet submarine K-314

K-314 was a nuclear submarine of the Soviet Navy, of the type Project 671 "Ёрш" (Yorsh, meaning ruffe; also known by its NATO reporting name of Victor I class).

On 21 March 1984, K-314 collided with the aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk in the Sea of Japan. Kitty Hawk was not significantly damaged but the Soviet submarine could not get underway to proceed home for repairs under her own power. The Frigate USS Harold E. Holt, stayed on scene for several days before the Soviets could send out a seagoing tug to bring her home. Holt offered assistance several times after daybreak but was refused by K-314's captain.

The initial collision rolled K-314 onto her back, sparing the sail, periscope and antennas. A second strike broke loose a blade of her propeller which remained lodged in Kitty Hawk's hull. Divers reportedly removed a piece as a souvenir and samples of the submarine's hull coating were examined for intelligence purposes.

References

• Bellona: Project 671, 671 V, 671 K (Yersy) - Victor-I Class
• Bellona: Nuclear submarine accidents (This report incorrectly identifies Soviet submarine K-431 as K-314 when describing a refueling criticality accident.)