OVERVIEW: The PLA-945 Sierra I [Barrakuda] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) of the Russian Navy. Entering service in 1992, the vessel represents a significant advancement in Soviet/Russian submarine design, characterized by its double-hulled titanium construction and advanced sensor suite.

DETAILS:
The Sierra I class, designated Project 945 Barrakuda within the Soviet Union, emerged from a requirement for a high-speed, deep-diving attack submarine capable of countering both Western submarines and surface combatants. The most distinctive feature of the Sierra I is its titanium hull, offering a superior strength-to-weight ratio compared to steel and enabling operational depths beyond the reach of many contemporary submarines. This construction, while expensive and challenging to implement, provided a significant tactical advantage in terms of survivability and maneuverability at extreme depths. The design emphasized stealth characteristics, incorporating advanced noise reduction techniques in machinery and hull construction to minimize the submarine’s acoustic signature.

The primary roles of the Sierra I class are anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence gathering. The robust construction and high operating depth allow the Sierra I to operate in contested environments, hunting enemy submarines and surface vessels. The vessel's sensor suite plays a critical role in these missions. The installation of the Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] combat information control system integrates sensor data and provides a comprehensive tactical picture. The Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] and Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] sonar suites are used for long-range detection and tracking of underwater targets. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] radar provides surface search capability, while the Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] is utilized for active sonar. The SOKS (System of Observation of the Wake) detects disturbances in the water caused by other vessels.

The PLA-945 Sierra I’s offensive capabilities are centered around its torpedo armament, delivered via four 533mm torpedo tubes and two 650mm torpedo tubes. These tubes are capable of launching a variety of weapons, including anti-submarine torpedoes, anti-ship torpedoes, and possibly cruise missiles. The 533mm tubes can deploy conventional torpedoes, while the larger 650mm tubes can launch heavier, longer-range weapons. The SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] mast launcher provides a limited self-defense capability against airborne threats, particularly helicopters. The Signal Ejector system allows for the deployment of countermeasures and decoys to confuse enemy sensors. The combination of advanced sensors, deep-diving capability, and diverse weapon options makes the Sierra I a formidable asset in the Russian Navy's submarine force.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 107.0 m || Beam: 11.5 m || Draft: 9.0 m || Disp: 7200 t

SENSORS: Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] || Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] || Park Lamp || Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV || SOKS

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