Born in the Russian Empire in 1909, Chabanenko entered the navy in 1927 and after completing his studies, began service with the Pacific Fleet as a submariner.

Promoted to flag rank in 1944, he took part in the brief Soviet–Japanese War, assisting in the invasion of South Sakhalin shortly before the surrender of Japan.

He held this post for the next decade, overseeing important improvements and advancements with the introduction of nuclear submarines with greater capabilities than their predecessors.

Frunze Higher Naval School in 1927, and after graduating, served as an officer aboard submarines of the Black Sea Fleet.

[3] Chabanenko was promoted to vice-admiral on 27 January 1951, and in April 1952 was appointed commander of the Northern Fleet, with the rank of admiral from 3 August 1953 onwards.