OVERVIEW: The PLA-971 Akula I Improved [Shchuka-B] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) of the Akula-class, an advanced design developed and deployed by the Soviet Union. These submarines represented a significant leap in Soviet submarine technology, incorporating substantial noise reduction measures and improved sensor suites compared to earlier designs.

DETAILS:
The Akula-class submarines, designated Project 971 Shchuka-B by the Soviet Union, were conceived in the 1970s as a direct response to the perceived threat posed by the increasingly capable U.S. Navy Los Angeles-class SSNs and the advanced Seawolf-class then under development. The design emphasized acoustic stealth, incorporating extensive use of anechoic tiles to reduce the submarine's acoustic signature. Internal machinery was mounted on isolated platforms to further minimize noise transmission into the surrounding water. The Akula I Improved variant featured enhancements over the original Akula design, including further noise reduction measures and improved electronics. The first of these improved boats was commissioned in 1989, representing the apex of Soviet SSN design prior to the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The Akula I Improved submarines were designed for a multi-mission role, primarily focused on anti-submarine warfare (ASW), but also capable of anti-surface warfare (ASuW) and limited area defense anti-air warfare (AAW). In an ASW role, the submarines were intended to locate and eliminate enemy submarines, particularly ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and aircraft carriers. The boats would also shadow enemy surface task forces, providing targeting information for land-based strike assets. The integration of the SA-N-8 Gremlin missile system provides a limited self-defense AAW capability against maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters.

The sensor suite of the PLA-971 is comprehensive, enabling effective detection and tracking of both surface and subsurface targets. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] fire control system manages the submarine's diverse array of weaponry. The Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] and Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] sonar systems provide long-range detection and classification capabilities, while the Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] sonar system allows for mine detection and avoidance. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-59] radar provides surface search and navigation capabilities. The integration of a Generic Acoustic Intercept system allows for the detection and analysis of enemy sonar emissions. A Generic Submarine Periscope with Optical and LLTV (Low Light Television) capabilities provides for visual observation of the surface environment, even in low light conditions. SOKS (System of Observation of the Wake of the Ship) wake detection system helps detect surface ships at longer ranges.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 110.3 m || Beam: 13.6 m || Draft: 9.7 m || Disp: 8140 t

SENSORS: Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] || Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] || Snoop Pair [MRKP-59] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV || SOKS

ARMAMENT: MG-114 Berilly [6x TT] || SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector