OVERVIEW: The S 620 Agosta is a diesel-electric attack submarine (SSK) of the Agosta class, operated by the French Navy.

DETAILS: The Agosta-class submarine was developed by the French shipyard Direction des Constructions et Armes Navales (DCAN, now Naval Group) in the 1970s as a successor to the successful Daphné-class. The design emphasized quiet operation and improved sonar capabilities, key attributes for anti-submarine warfare in the Cold War environment. Specific design features aimed at reducing acoustic signature included raft-mounted machinery and optimized hull design. While primarily intended for the French Navy, the class was also exported to Spain and Pakistan, demonstrating its success in the international market. The Agosta class reflects a period of significant advancement in diesel-electric submarine technology, prioritizing stealth and sensor performance over outright speed.

The primary role of the Agosta-class submarine is anti-submarine warfare (ASW), although it also possesses significant anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capabilities. The vessel's ability to operate quietly allows it to effectively patrol strategic areas and potentially engage enemy submarines before being detected. Given the sensor suite, limited anti-air warfare (AAW) capabilities are present, although the platform would primarily rely on stealth and evasion rather than direct engagement. Furthermore, the Agosta class could also be used for intelligence gathering and special operations, leveraging its inherent stealth and extended endurance compared to surface combatants.

The Agosta’s sensor suite provides a comprehensive underwater situational awareness picture. The DUUX 2A active/passive sonar is a hull-mounted system providing long-range detection and tracking capabilities. The DSUV 22 towed array sonar, incorporating DSUV 2H processing and DUUA 2D hydrophones, further enhances passive detection ranges and offers improved discrimination against background noise. Surface search and navigation are accomplished with the DRUA 33C Calypso III radar (also known as TRS 3100). Electronic support measures (ESM) are provided by the ARUR 10 system, including the DR 2000U intercept receiver. Additional systems include the DUUG 5 and DUUG 6 (M5) sonars, likely for close-range detection and obstacle avoidance. Optical and low-light television (LLTV) periscopes provide visual confirmation and observation capabilities. Offensive capability is provided by the 550mm torpedo tubes, allowing for the deployment of a variety of torpedoes and potentially anti-ship missiles. The inclusion of a signal ejector permits the launching of decoys and communications buoys without compromising the submarine’s location.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 67.6 m || Beam: 6.8 m || Draft: 5.4 m || Disp: 1490 t

SENSORS: DUUX 2A || DSUV 22 [DSUV 2H + DUUA 2D] || ARUR 10 [DR 2000U] || DRUA 33C Calypso III [TRS 3100] || DUUG 5 || DUUG 6 [M5] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: Signal Ejector || 550mm TT