OVERVIEW: The 65-76A "Kit" is a Soviet/Russian submarine-launched, wake-homing heavyweight torpedo introduced in 1992 as an improved version of the original 65-76. It was developed to engage large surface ships such as carriers with enhanced range and guidance reliability.

DETAILS: The designation “65-76A” refers to a 650 mm diameter torpedo, with “A” denoting an upgraded variant of the 65-76 “Kit.” It retained the kerosene-oxidizer wet-heater propulsion system but featured improved wake-homing sensors, better stability, and enhanced reliability over its predecessor. The torpedo was designed to exploit the large torpedo tubes of Soviet nuclear-powered submarines and carried a massive high-explosive warhead for maximum damage. Despite its high performance, the 65-76A was reportedly withdrawn from active service following safety concerns and obsolescence.

TYPE: Heavyweight wake-homing torpedo

FUNCTION: Once launched, the 65-76A travels a preset straight distance before activating its passive wake-homing seeker to lock onto the turbulent wake of a target ship. It follows the wake to impact near the stern and detonate, maximizing destruction against large surface vessels.

NOTE:
IOC: 1977 (65-76), 1992 (65-76A)
Operators: Russia
Platforms: Project 949A (Oscar II-class), Project 945A (Sierra II-class), Project 971 (Akula-class, select units with 650 mm tubes)
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat use

SOURCE:
Jane’s Underwater Warfare Systems ; Federation of American Scientists (FAS): https://fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/weaps/index.html ; Russian Navy Weapons Digest ; Naval Institute Guide to World Naval Weapon Systems ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org