News, views and top stories in your inbox. Don't miss our must-read newsletter Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

A 'explosion' on a Russian submarine has left 14 people dead.

The blaze broke out on the Losharik submarine, an AS-12, in Russian waters and an investigation into the incident has been launched, according to the country's Ministry of Defense.

The apparatus was studying the bottom of the oceans in the interests of the Russian Navy.

The ministry added that it was possible to extinguish the fire thanks to the selfless actions of the team. Now the device is at the naval base of Severomorsk.

The investigation of the tragedy is controlled by the commander-in-chief of the Navy.

(Image: REUTERS) (Image: Getty)

Russian Defense Ministry reported. "On July 1, a fire broke out in Russian territorial waters on a research deep-water apparatus designed to study the bottom space and the bottom of the World Ocean in the interests of the Russian Navy.

"During the biometric measurements, 14 submariners died as a result of burning with poisoned products."

"The causes of the incident are established. The investigation is conducted by the Commander-in-Chief of the Navy."

The nuclear-powered Losharik was launched in 2003, despite being laid down in 1988. The submarine, at 60 metres long, can capacitate 25 officers.

(Image: Getty Images)

In August 2000, the Russian nuclear-powered submarine Kursk sank to the floor of Barents Sea after two explosions in its bow, killing all 118 men aboard.]

The town of Severomorsk is a closed area in Oblast and serves as the main administrative base of the Russian Northern Fleet.

On May 12, 1984, there was a major fire on the outskirts of the town at a stockpile of naval missile.

It resulted in a number of large explosions on May 17 and claimed around 300 lives.