OVERVIEW: The PLA-671RT Victor II [Syomga] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) of the Soviet Navy. Entering service in 1984, the PLA-671RT represented a significant advancement in Soviet submarine technology, primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) operations.

DETAILS: The Victor II class, designated Project 671RT Syomga, was conceived as a direct successor to the earlier Victor I class (Project 671), addressing several shortcomings in acoustic signature and operational capabilities. Development focused on reducing noise levels, improving sonar performance, and increasing the submarine's operational depth. The Victor II design incorporated advanced sound dampening techniques and a more streamlined hull form compared to its predecessor. While the Victor I was considered a capable hunter-killer submarine, the Victor II aimed to achieve a qualitative edge against contemporary Western submarines, particularly the improved Los Angeles-class of the United States Navy. The “RT” designation indicates a modification aimed at improved targeting and weapon control systems.

The PLA-671RT's primary role was to hunt and eliminate enemy submarines, particularly ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and attack submarines, and to interdict enemy surface combatants. The improved acoustic signature and enhanced sonar capabilities granted the Victor II a greater degree of stealth and detection range compared to earlier Soviet designs. The submarine could also be deployed for covert intelligence gathering and special operations missions. Secondary roles included anti-surface warfare using its torpedo armament. The SA-N-8 Gremlin mast launcher provides a limited self-defense AAW capability against patrol aircraft and helicopters, enhancing survivability in contested environments.

The PLA-671RT’s effectiveness was substantially enhanced by its sensor suite. The Shark Teeth [MGK-300 Rubin] sonar system provided both active and passive detection capabilities, enabling long-range detection and tracking of both submarines and surface vessels. The Shark Sail variant offered improved low-frequency detection. The Park Lamp radar system likely served for surface search and navigation, while the Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] system facilitated electronic support measures (ESM), identifying and analyzing enemy radar emissions. The Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] system served as a fire-control radar for the SA-N-8 missile. The Mine Avoidance [MG-509 Radian-1] sonar system aided in navigating minefields and constricted waters. Torpedoes of both 533mm and 650mm calibers allowed engagement of a broad range of targets. The inclusion of both optical and Low-Light Television (LLTV) periscopes further enhanced situational awareness, particularly in littoral environments.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 101.8 m || Beam: 10.8 m || Draft: 7.3 m || Disp: 4700 t

SENSORS: Shark Teeth [MGK-300 Rubin] || Park Lamp || Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] || Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] || Shark Sail [MGK-300 Rubin] || Mine Avoidance [MG-509 Radian-1] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector