Additional:
How do the Russian Service chiefs know there was a collision - can the subs send radio underwater? Or is it 'cover your **** ' time at the ministry.
I'm speculating, but I wouldn't be surprised if this crisis has more to do with a cash-strapped Russian Navy trying to operate 21st Century equipment with 18th century funding & logistics. Life is not so different anywhere in the world!!!
Hope they get them out, but I am not optimistic.