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Russian Experts Rule Out Radiation Leaks During Kursk Operation
Russian radiation experts on Tuesday ruled out possible radiation leaks during the salvage operation of the sunken submarine Kursk.
"The analysis of all possible and even fantastic accidents that may occur during the lifting operation suggests that the reactor will remain in its current safe mode," Alexander Kiryushin, chief designer of the Afrikantov design bureau, told a Tuesday press conference.
Reactors like those on the Kursk "can work under a load many times as high as the strongest earthquake," he said.
When analyzing emergencies that could take place during the Kursk mission, experts examined not only the possibility of the submarine's falling and overturning, but also "an unexpected explosion of the remaining ammunition," Kiryushin said.
"But there will be no greater impact on the reactor than there was at the beginning of the disaster, in any case," Kiryushin added.
He also said the Russian navy has officially announced no unexploded ammunition was left in the vicinity of the first compartment of the vessel.
Nikolai Ponomaryov-Stepnoi, Vice President of the Kurchatov Institute, mentioned a possible increase of radiation level when washing off the silt on the surface of the submarine.
"One need not be afraid of this. Silt in the part of the sea has accumulated some radiation over many years, including as a result of nuclear tests, and when it is stirred the radiation level around the sub may increase inconsiderably," he explained.
The two scientists also talked about the fate of Kursk and its reactors, saying it will be disposed of in the traditional way, like other old nuclear submarines.
Russian Navy Spokesman Igor Dygalo said on the same day that all of the deep-sea divers involved in preparations for lifting the Kursk are in good condition. The divers are being followed by a famous military doctor and their rotation has been properly organized, he said.
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