OVERVIEW: The PLARB-667BDRM Delta IV [Delfin] is a Russian nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). It represents the fourth generation of the Delta-class submarine, designed primarily to serve as a strategic deterrent platform.

DETAILS: The Delta IV class represents an evolution of the preceding Delta III design, incorporating improvements in noise reduction, missile capacity, and operational capabilities. Development was undertaken by the Rubin Design Bureau, leveraging experience gained from earlier Delta-class submarines. The design emphasizes stealth and survivability, crucial attributes for a platform intended to operate independently in hostile environments, ensuring second-strike capability. Construction of the Delta IV series began in the early 1980s, with the lead boat entering service in 1985. The *PLARB-667BDRM* described herein commissioned in 1992, represents the later production examples, incorporating further refinements implemented during the production run.

The primary role of the Delta IV is to provide a secure and survivable platform for launching ballistic missiles, ensuring a credible nuclear deterrent. While optimized for strategic strike, the Delta IV is also capable of limited anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations for self-defense. The submarine's design prioritizes acoustic quieting to reduce the risk of detection by enemy submarines. The integrated sensor suite, while primarily focused on target acquisition for ballistic missile launches, also contributes to situational awareness for ASW operations. Its torpedo armament provides additional defensive capabilities against potential threats.

The *PLARB-667BDRM* is equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors, including the Shark Gill [MGK-520 Skat-BDRM] sonar system for active and passive detection and tracking of underwater contacts. The Shark Tail [Pelmida] towed array sonar further enhances the submarine's passive detection capabilities, allowing for long-range surveillance. The Park Lamp and Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] electronic warfare support measures (ESM) systems provide the capability to detect and analyze radar emissions, enhancing situational awareness. The Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] is a radar system, likely utilized for navigation and surface surveillance. Generic Acoustic Intercept and Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] systems will provide additional electronic and acoustic intelligence capabilities. The submarine periscopes, featuring both optical and low-light television (LLTV) capabilities, facilitate visual observation of the surface environment. The primary armament consists of the SS-N-23 Skiff submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), providing a long-range strategic strike capability. The 533mm torpedo tubes offer the capability to launch anti-submarine and anti-surface torpedoes, while the signal ejector provides a means for deploying countermeasures and communication buoys.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 166.0 m || Beam: 12.3 m || Draft: 8.8 m || Disp: 13500 t

SENSORS: Shark Gill [MGK-520 Skat-BDRM] || Shark Tail [Pelmida] || Park Lamp || Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] || Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: SS-N-23 Skiff SLBM || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || Signal Ejector