OVERVIEW: The PLA-971 Akula I [Shchuka-B] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) of Soviet origin.

DETAILS: The Akula I (Project 971 Shchuka-B) class represents a significant advancement in Soviet submarine technology, evolving from the earlier Victor III and Alpha classes. Development was driven by the need to counter increasingly sophisticated Western submarines, particularly the Los Angeles class. The design emphasized both acoustic quieting and improved combat capabilities, incorporating advanced sound dampening techniques, including rafted machinery and anechoic coatings, to reduce the vessel's acoustic signature. While the Akula I retained the double-hull construction characteristic of Soviet submarines, it incorporated design improvements to optimize hydrodynamic efficiency and reduce drag. The lead unit was commissioned in 1987, marking the introduction of a new generation of Soviet SSNs intended to challenge US naval superiority.

The Akula I’s primary role is anti-submarine warfare (ASW), designed to hunt and engage enemy submarines, particularly ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and other high-value surface targets. Secondary roles include anti-surface warfare (ASuW), utilizing its torpedoes and cruise missile capabilities against surface combatants. While not primarily designed for area air defense, the presence of a mast-mounted SA-N-8 Gremlin launcher provides a limited self-defense capability against aircraft and anti-ship missiles. The Akula I's combination of speed, stealth, and powerful armament made it a formidable threat in the underwater battlespace. Its deployment pattern focused on forward areas, aiming to protect Soviet SSBN bastions and disrupt enemy naval operations.

The Akula I is equipped with an advanced suite of sensors and weapons systems. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] radar provides surface search and target designation capabilities. The Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] and Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] sonar suites provide comprehensive underwater situational awareness, including active and passive detection, classification, and tracking of targets. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] electronic support measures (ESM) system allows for the detection and identification of radar emissions from surface ships and aircraft, contributing to situational awareness and targeting. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] sonar is likely dedicated to mine detection and avoidance. The presence of both optical and low-light television (LLTV) submarine periscopes offers versatile options for visual observation in varying light conditions. Four torpedo tubes (two 533mm and two 650mm) allow for the launch of a variety of torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, while the SA-N-8 Gremlin provides a limited air defense capability.

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-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 || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector