OVERVIEW: The PLA-971M Akula II [Shchuka-B] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) operated by the Russian Navy. It represents an improved variant of the Project 971 Shchuka-B class, known in the West as the Akula class.

DETAILS:
The Akula II represents a significant evolution of Soviet/Russian submarine design. Development focused on reducing acoustic signature to rival Western counterparts, particularly the US Navy's Los Angeles-class submarines. This involved advanced sound isolation techniques, including rafted machinery and anechoic coatings, contributing to a quieter operating profile. The Project 971 program was initiated in the late 1970s, with the lead boat commissioned in 1984. The Akula II subtype, designated Project 971M, incorporates further noise reduction measures and advanced sensor suites, making it one of the quietest Russian submarines. The collapse of the Soviet Union significantly hampered the construction program, leading to delays and cancellations. Despite these setbacks, the Akula II remains a potent asset in the Russian submarine fleet.

The primary role of the PLA-971M Akula II is anti-submarine warfare (ASW), targeting enemy submarines and surface combatants. It also possesses significant anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capabilities and is capable of conducting covert intelligence gathering operations. The installation of the Shark Rib [MGK-540 Skat-3] sonar suite provides comprehensive underwater surveillance, detection, and tracking capabilities, while the Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] fire control system enables precise targeting for both torpedoes and cruise missiles. The SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] mast launcher offers limited self-defense against aerial threats. The wide array of torpedo tube sizes (533mm and 650mm) allows for the deployment of diverse ordnance, including anti-submarine torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and specialized weapons.

The PLA-971M's sensor suite provides a multi-faceted approach to situational awareness. The Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] towed array sonar enhances long-range detection capabilities, while the Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] flank arrays supplement the main sonar dome. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-59] radar provides surface search and navigation capabilities when operating at periscope depth. Generic Acoustic Intercept equipment allows the submarine to passively detect and classify other vessels based on their acoustic signatures. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] is a hydroacoustic warfare system used for jamming enemy sonar. Two Generic Submarine Periscopes, one optical and one with a Low Light Television (LLTV) camera, facilitate visual observation and target identification. Finally, the SOKS (System of Observation of the Kavitacionnoye Signatures) detects changes in the water caused by passing ships.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 113.3 m || Beam: 13.6 m || Draft: 9.7 m || Disp: 8470 t

SENSORS: Shark Rib [MGK-540 Skat-3] || Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] || Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] || Snoop Pair [MRKP-59] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV || SOKS

ARMAMENT: MG-114 Berilly [6x TT] || SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector