The submarine is to be leased to India under the name INS Chakra.

On November 8, 2008, while the Nerpa was undergoing sea trials, its onboard fire suppression system activated, releasing a deadly gas into the sleeping quarters to kill three crew members and 17 shipyard workers. There were 208 people onboard the vessel at the time.

After the mending, which cost  an estimated  $65 million, the submarine is all set  for final sea trials. The submarine will be subsequently leased to the Indian Navy under the name INS Chakra.