OVERVIEW: The S 311 Al Badr [PL-641 Foxtrot] is a diesel-electric submarine operated by the Libyan Navy. Commissioned in 1977, it represents a significant, albeit aging, component of Libya's undersea warfare capabilities.

DETAILS:
The Project 641 (Foxtrot-class) submarine, developed by the Soviet Union, was designed as a successor to the earlier Project 611 (Zulu-class). The Foxtrot design represented a significant improvement in submerged endurance and operational capabilities compared to its predecessor. Key design features included a three-compartment arrangement for the main diesel engines to reduce noise and vibration, improved sonar performance, and a longer operational range. These submarines were intended to fulfill a wide range of roles, primarily anti-surface warfare (ASuW) and anti-submarine warfare (ASW), operating in both blue-water and coastal environments. The selection of this platform by Libya reflected the strategic importance placed on controlling its extensive coastline and projecting power within the Mediterranean Sea during the 1970s. The Foxtrot design was widely exported, seeing service with numerous navies throughout the Cold War era.

The primary roles of the S 311 Al Badr are believed to be anti-surface warfare (ASuW) and reconnaissance, although a secondary ASW capability exists. Given its age, its effectiveness against modern nuclear-powered submarines is questionable. The platform's likely patrol areas are the waters off the Libyan coast, where it could be used for intelligence gathering, monitoring shipping, and potentially interdicting enemy surface combatants. While unlikely to be deployed in deep-water ASW operations, it could pose a threat to surface shipping and older submarines. Its deployment profile would likely be shaped by Libya's regional security concerns and potential conflicts.

The S 311 Al Badr's sensor suite significantly enhances its operational capabilities. The installation of the Pike Jaw [MG-200 Arktika] and Wolf Paw [GAS-372 Hercules-2M] sonar systems provides a means for both active and passive detection of surface and subsurface contacts. The Pike Jaw system offers a longer range for initial detection, while the Wolf Paw is optimized for target tracking and classification. The Acoustic Intercept [MG-23 Svet-M] system allows the submarine to passively detect and analyze enemy sonar emissions, providing valuable intelligence. The Snoop Tray 1 [RLK-101 Albatross] radar provides limited surface search capability. The Quad Loop DF installation supports radio direction finding to identify and locate surface targets, while the Optical and Generic Submarine Periscope are for visual confirmation and observation. The Trout Cheek [MG-10M Feniks-M] fire control system supports torpedo engagements.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 91.3 m || Beam: 7.5 m || Draft: 5.1 m || Disp: 1952 t

SENSORS: Quad Loop DF || Stop Light B [Nakat] || Trout Cheek [MG-10M Feniks-M] || Snoop Tray 1 [RLK-101 Albatross] || Acoustic Intercept [MG-23 Svet-M] || Pike Jaw [MG-200 Arktika] || Wolf Paw [GAS-372 Hercules-2M] || Generic Submarine Periscope || Optical

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT