OVERVIEW: The PLARK-949A Oscar II [Antey] is a Russian Navy nuclear-powered guided missile submarine (SSGN) designed to attack aircraft carrier battle groups and other high-value surface targets. The class represents a significant evolution in Soviet/Russian submarine design, emphasizing long-range strike capabilities and high submerged speed.

DETAILS: The Oscar II class submarines, designated Project 949A Antey by the Rubin Design Bureau, represent a direct response to the perceived threat posed by US Navy carrier battle groups during the Cold War. Development began in the 1970s as an improvement over the earlier Project 949 Granit (Oscar I) class. The primary design goal was to provide a platform capable of launching devastating strikes against surface combatants at extreme ranges, utilizing a salvo of long-range anti-ship missiles. Several design changes were implemented to reduce acoustic signature compared to the Oscar I class, although the class remains relatively noisy compared to attack submarines. The lead boat of the class, K-148 Krasnodar, was laid down in 1982, with the first unit commissioning in 1992. The collapse of the Soviet Union resulted in a smaller than anticipated number of Oscar IIs being built.

The primary role of the Oscar II is Anti-Surface Warfare (ASuW), with a secondary capability for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW). The vessel is equipped with an array of sensors designed to detect and track surface targets at long ranges. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] radar provides surface search and target acquisition capabilities. The Shark Gill [MGK-501 Skat-KS] sonar suite provides comprehensive underwater surveillance and target tracking. Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] is a specialized sonar system that can be used for mine detection and avoidance. The submarines also feature both optical and low-light television (LLTV) periscopes for visual confirmation of targets. Acoustic intercept equipment provides passive monitoring of enemy sonar and communication signals.

The PLARK-949A's offensive capabilities are centered around its 24 SS-N-19 Shipwreck anti-ship missiles. These missiles, housed externally between the double hull, possess long ranges and high speeds, capable of delivering a substantial warhead against enemy ships. Self-defense is provided by the SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] surface-to-air missile system launched from a mast-mounted launcher, offering limited protection against aircraft. Additionally, the vessel is equipped with both 533mm and 650mm torpedo tubes for engaging both surface and subsurface targets at closer ranges. Signal ejectors allow for the deployment of countermeasures and communication devices. The Shark Tail [Pelmida] system provides an early warning of approaching torpedoes. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] navigation system ensures accurate positioning and guidance for both missile and torpedo attacks.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 154.0 m || Beam: 18.2 m || Draft: 9.0 m || Disp: 13900 t

SENSORS: Shark Tail [Pelmida] || Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Shark Gill [MGK-501 Skat-KS] || Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: SS-N-19 Shipwreck || SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector