**OVERVIEW:** The PLARK-675MKV Echo II is a cruise missile submarine operated by the Russian Navy, entering service in 1992. It represents a significant upgrade to earlier designs, focusing on improved sensor capabilities and enhanced strike power against surface targets.

**DETAILS:**

The PLARK-675MKV Echo II represents a late-stage modernization of the Project 675 (Echo II) class, a Soviet-era design conceived in the late 1950s to counter US carrier strike groups. The original Project 675 submarines were notable for their large, deck-mounted cruise missile launchers, a design choice influenced by the perceived need to rapidly engage surface targets at long ranges. The PLARK-675MKV modernization program sought to address several shortcomings of the earlier boats, primarily in the areas of acoustic signature, sensor performance, and missile guidance. The modifications incorporated in the MKV variant, entering service in the post-Soviet era, focused on maintaining the submarine's relevance in a changing naval landscape, emphasizing precision strike capabilities against high-value targets. The program reflects Russia's continued investment in submarine-launched cruise missiles as a key component of its maritime strategy.

The primary role of the PLARK-675MKV Echo II is anti-surface warfare (ASuW), with a secondary emphasis on reconnaissance and surveillance. While not optimized for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), the submarine retains a limited capability to engage underwater targets using its torpedo armament. The SS-N-12 Sandbox missiles represent the submarine's primary offensive capability, allowing it to engage surface combatants at extended ranges. The upgraded sensor suite, including the Snoop Slab [Burya] radar, enhances the submarine's ability to detect and track surface targets. The acoustic intercept capability allows for the passive detection of surface ships and other submarines through the analysis of their acoustic emissions. The inclusion of the Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] system speaks to the inherent dangers of operating in littoral waters and highlights the importance of safeguarding the submarine from mine threats.

The enhanced sensor suite provides the PLARK-675MKV with improved situational awareness. The Quad Loop DF system improves the submarine's ability to geolocate radio transmissions from surface ships and aircraft. The Front Door A [Argument] fire control system is likely integrated with the SS-N-12 Sandbox missiles, providing enhanced guidance and targeting capabilities. The Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] and Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] sonars likely provide improved long-range detection and tracking of surface and subsurface contacts, while the Stop Light B [Nakat] system could provide additional specialized sonar functionality. The combination of optical sensors and a generic submarine periscope allows for visual confirmation of targets and navigation in shallow waters. The various torpedo tubes provide close-range engagement options with both surface vessels and submarines. The Signal Ejector is a defensive system designed to deploy countermeasures, such as decoys, to confuse and defeat incoming torpedoes.

**SPECIFICATION:** Length: 119.0 m || Beam: 9.2 m || Draft: 7.1 m || Disp: 4485 t

**SENSORS:** Quad Loop DF || Stop Light B [Nakat] || Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] || Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] || Front Door A [Argument] || Snoop Slab [Burya] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] || Generic Submarine Periscope || Optical

**ARMAMENT:** 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 400mm TT || SS-N-12 Sandbox [P-1000] Single Tubes || Signal Ejector