OVERVIEW: The PLARB-667AU Yankee I [Nalim] is a Project 667AU *Yankee I* class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) operated by the Russian Navy. Entering service in 1992, it represents a late production example of this class, likely incorporating upgrades and modifications implemented throughout the *Yankee I* program's operational lifespan.

DETAILS:
The Project 667A *Navaga* (NATO reporting name *Yankee I*) class represented a crucial step in the Soviet Union's development of a credible sea-based nuclear deterrent. Designed in the early 1960s in response to the growing threat of US ballistic missile submarines, the class was intended to provide a platform capable of launching strategic missiles from a submerged and relatively undetectable position. The lead unit was commissioned in 1967, and the design served as a stopgap until the larger, more capable *Delta* class SSBNs could be developed and deployed. The PLARB-667AU designation denotes a unit that was either built late in the production run or subsequently upgraded to improved standards, likely involving enhancements to sonar, communications, and missile systems. These upgrades sought to maintain the *Yankee I* class’s relevance despite the introduction of newer platforms.

The *Yankee I* class, and by extension the PLARB-667AU, was primarily designed for strategic nuclear strike missions. Its role was to maintain a credible second-strike capability, ensuring the Soviet Union (and later Russia) could retaliate in the event of a nuclear attack. Beyond this primary mission, the vessel retained a limited capability for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), although this was secondary to its strategic role. The deployment of the SS-N-6 Serb SLBM provided a significant offensive capability, allowing the submarine to target locations deep within enemy territory. Given the era of operation, the submarine would have been deployed within defended bastions, close to the Russian mainland, in order to ensure survivability.

The sensor suite onboard the PLARB-667AU allows for both effective navigation and target acquisition. The inclusion of the Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] and Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] sonars provides passive and active detection capabilities for identifying surface and subsurface contacts. The Snoop Tray 1 [RLK-101 Albatross] radar system is likely used for surface search and navigation. The Brick Pulp [MRP-10] radar warning receiver allows for the detection of hostile radar emissions. The Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] system is critical for navigating potentially mined areas, while the optical and LLTV periscopes allow for visual observation of the surrounding environment. The presence of 533mm and 400mm torpedo tubes, coupled with a signal ejector, provides a self-defense capability against hostile submarines and surface ships. The combination of acoustic intercept gear and the aforementioned sensors gives the vessel enhanced situational awareness.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 128.0 m || Beam: 11.7 m || Draft: 7.9 m || Disp: 7770 t

SENSORS: Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] || Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] || Park Lamp || Snoop Tray 1 [RLK-101 Albatross] || Brick Pulp [MRP-10] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || SS-N-6 Serb Mod 2 SLBM || 400mm TT || Signal Ejector