OVERVIEW: The PLARK-675K Echo II is a Project 675K (Echo II class) nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine. Entering service in 1973 with the Soviet Navy, it represents a significant iteration in Soviet submarine design, optimized for anti-surface warfare.

DETAILS:
The Project 675 (Echo I) and Project 675K (Echo II) submarines were developed in the late 1950s and early 1960s as a direct response to the growing threat posed by US Navy carrier strike groups. The design sought to provide the Soviet Navy with a long-range strike capability against these high-value targets. The Echo II variant, introduced the "K" modification which allowed the submarine to launch its SS-N-3a Shaddock missiles while submerged, a considerable tactical advantage over the earlier Echo I design which required surfacing. The hull design reflected this change, incorporating a large deck structure to accommodate the missile tubes. The focus on ASuW capabilities meant a sacrifice in acoustic stealth, making the Echo II a relatively noisy platform compared to dedicated attack submarines.

The primary role of the PLARK-675K Echo II was anti-surface warfare (ASuW), specifically targeting enemy carrier battle groups. The SS-N-3a Shaddock cruise missiles, carried in eight angled launch tubes, provided the long-range strike capability to engage targets well beyond the range of the submarine’s own sensors. The installation of the Snoop Slab (Burya) radar system allowed for target acquisition and missile guidance. While primarily designed for ASuW missions, the vessel also possessed torpedo tubes for self-defense and engagement of smaller surface combatants. Its secondary roles included reconnaissance and intelligence gathering, leveraging its long endurance and sensor suite. The vessel's sensors, including the generic acoustic intercept system, provided the capability to detect and classify surface and subsurface contacts.

The sensor suite aboard the PLARK-675K Echo II represents a mix of systems designed for long-range detection and targeting. The Quad Loop DF system aids in radio direction finding, providing intelligence on enemy communications. The Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] and Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] are sonar systems used for target detection and classification, although the Kerch system was relatively limited in its capabilities compared to later Soviet sonars. The Front Door A [Argument] radar was a key element for navigation and surface search. The Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] sonar enhanced the submarine's ability to operate safely in mined waters. The 533mm and 400mm torpedo tubes provided a close-range self-defense capability against both surface and subsurface threats.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 115.4 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: SS-N-3a Shaddock Tubes || Signal Ejector || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 400mm TT