OVERVIEW: The PLA-885 Severodvinsk [Yasen] is a nuclear-powered multi-purpose submarine operated by the Russian Navy.

DETAILS: The Severodvinsk represents the fourth generation of Russian nuclear-powered attack submarines and embodies a significant departure from earlier Soviet-era designs. The Yasen class was conceived in the late 1980s, with design work continuing through the 1990s amidst significant economic hardship. This resulted in a prolonged construction period for the lead vessel, Severodvinsk, which was laid down in 1993 and eventually commissioned in 2014. The design emphasizes stealth, incorporating anechoic coatings, a hydrodynamically efficient hull form, and a reduced acoustic signature. Internal arrangements also reflect a shift in design philosophy, with the torpedo tubes moved from the bow to the amidships section, freeing up space for a large spherical sonar array. This configuration represents a significant advancement in Russian submarine technology, intended to match or surpass the capabilities of contemporary Western designs like the US Navy's Seawolf and Virginia classes.

The primary roles of the Severodvinsk encompass anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and land-attack missions. Its powerful sensor suite, coupled with a diverse array of weaponry, allows it to effectively engage a wide range of targets. As an ASW platform, the MGK-600 Amfora sonar suite, with its hull, flank, and towed array components, provides long-range detection and tracking capabilities against enemy submarines. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] radar enhances its surface surveillance capabilities, while the Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] electronic warfare support measures system provides situational awareness of enemy radar emissions. Its torpedo tubes can deploy a variety of anti-submarine torpedoes and missiles. In the ASuW role, the 3R-14UKSK-Kh vertical launch system (VLS) cells are capable of firing the SS-N-26 (P-800 Oniks) anti-ship missile, posing a significant threat to surface combatants.

The Yasen-class submarines also possess a land-attack capability through the employment of cruise missiles launched from the VLS cells. The combination of sophisticated sensors and diverse weaponry makes the Severodvinsk a highly versatile and potent platform. The Optical and LLTV equipped periscopes provide visual and electronic situational awareness at periscope depth. The SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] mast launcher provides a limited self-defence AAW capability. The acoustic intercept system offers valuable intelligence gathering capabilities by analyzing the acoustic signatures of other vessels.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 119.0 m || Beam: 13.5 m || Draft: 9.4 m || Disp: 8600 t

SENSORS: Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Park Lamp || Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] || MGK-600 Amfora [Flank Array] || MGK-600 Amfora [Towed Array] || MGK-600 Amfora [Hull Array] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 3R-14UKSK-Kh VLS [32 Cells, SS-N-26] || Signal Ejector || 533mm TT || 533mm TT