OVERVIEW: The S 605 Amethyste [Rubis Class] is a French Navy nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN), commissioned in 1992. She represents a significant upgrade to the earlier Rubis-class submarines, incorporating substantial noise reduction measures and improved sonar capabilities.

DETAILS:
The Rubis class, initially conceived in the 1970s, faced delays and modifications throughout its development. The Amethyste upgrade program, undertaken in the late 1980s and early 1990s, addressed significant acoustic signature issues present in the original design. The improvements focused on reducing noise generated by onboard machinery and hydrodynamic flow, resulting in a quieter and more effective submarine. This program involved cutting the hull in two and inserting a new section to accommodate noise reduction measures, effectively creating a mid-life upgrade. The class reflects a French design philosophy emphasizing relatively compact nuclear submarines capable of operating independently in a variety of roles. The focus on nuclear propulsion provides significant endurance and operational flexibility.

The primary roles of the S 605 Amethyste are anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence gathering. These submarines are designed to operate both independently and as part of a larger naval task force. The Amethyste is capable of long-range deployments, conducting covert surveillance missions, and protecting French naval assets. The 533mm torpedo tubes provide a potent anti-ship and anti-submarine capability, while the advanced sonar suite enables the detection and tracking of both surface and underwater targets at extended ranges. The submarine is also capable of supporting special operations forces.

The S 605 Amethyste is equipped with an extensive suite of sensors for situational awareness. The DUUX 5 Fenelon (TSM 2255) sonar provides passive and active detection, classification, and tracking of underwater contacts. The Type 1007 navigation radar allows for surface navigation and detection of surface contacts. The DMUX 20 sonar suite, incorporating the DSUV 2H towed array and DUUA 2D flank array, significantly enhances passive detection capabilities, especially in shallow or noisy environments. The DR 3000U radar intercept receiver provides electronic support measures (ESM), allowing the submarine to detect and identify radar emissions from surface ships and aircraft. The DSUV 62C (TSM 2933) intercept array adds further to the ESM capabilities of the vessel. Two periscopes are fitted; one generic optical periscope and another equipped with low-light television (LLTV) for improved night vision. The DUUG 6 (M5) and DUUG 2 are fire control systems.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 73.6 m || Beam: 7.6 m || Draft: 6.4 m || Disp: 2400 t

SENSORS: DUUX 5 Fenelon [TSM 2255] || Type 1007 || DMUX 20 [DSUV 2H + DUUA 2D] || DR 3000U || DSUV 62C [TSM 2933] || DUUG 6 [M5] || DUUG 2 || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || Signal Ejector