OVERVIEW: The PLA-945A Sierra II [Kondor] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) of Russian origin. Entering service in 1992, the Sierra II class represents an evolution of Soviet submarine design, emphasizing stealth and deep-diving capabilities.

DETAILS: The Sierra II class, designated Project 945A by the Soviet Union, was developed by the Lazurit Design Bureau as a successor to the Project 945 Sierra I. The design prioritized acoustic quieting and increased operational depth. Construction took place at the Krasnoye Sormovo shipyard in Nizhny Novgorod. These submarines represented a significant technological leap, utilizing a double-hulled construction of titanium alloy for the inner hull, allowing for exceptional crush depth and resistance to magnetic anomaly detection (MAD) systems. The external hull is also constructed of titanium, offering resistance to corrosion and further contributing to the submarine's stealth characteristics. While the exact production numbers remain uncertain, the Sierra II class was intended to complement the larger Akula-class SSNs in the Soviet, and later Russian, submarine fleet.

The primary role of the Sierra II is anti-submarine warfare (ASW), targeting enemy submarines, particularly ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and other high-value surface targets. Secondary roles include anti-surface warfare (ASuW) and intelligence gathering. The advanced sensor suite, including the Shark Rib [MGK-540 Skat-3] sonar complex, provides a comprehensive underwater acoustic picture, enabling long-range detection and tracking of targets. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] fire control system integrates sensor data to enable effective targeting with both torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. The boat is also equipped with a SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] mast launcher, providing self-defense capabilities against anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft and helicopters.

The Sierra II class's enhanced sensor suite allows for a wide range of operational capabilities. The combination of the Shark Rib, Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3], and Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] sonars provides both active and passive detection capabilities across multiple frequency bands, maximizing detection probability in various acoustic environments. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] radar enables surface search and navigation, while the Optical and LLTV periscopes provide visual observation capabilities both during daylight and in low-light conditions. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] is a dedicated mine detection sonar, assisting in safe navigation through minefields and potentially allowing for covert mine laying operations. The presence of a Generic Acoustic Intercept sensor allows the submarine to analyze the acoustic signatures of other vessels, aiding in identification and threat assessment. The Signal Ejector provides a means of deploying countermeasures and communicating with other platforms.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 111.0 m || Beam: 14.2 m || Draft: 9.4 m || Disp: 7600 t

SENSORS: Shark Rib [MGK-540 Skat-3] || 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 || 533mm TT || Signal Ejector