OVERVIEW: The PLARK-949A Oscar II [Antey] is a Russian Federation Navy nuclear-powered guided missile submarine (SSGN) designed primarily for anti-surface warfare. It represents a significant evolution of the Project 949 Granit (Oscar I) class, featuring improved acoustic signature, enhanced electronics, and modified missile capacity.

DETAILS: The Project 949A Antey was developed during the late Cold War as a direct response to the expanding capabilities of US Navy carrier battle groups and their increasingly potent anti-submarine warfare (ASW) screens. The design philosophy prioritized long-range engagement of high-value surface targets, emphasizing saturation attacks using the formidable SS-N-19 Shipwreck anti-ship missile. Modifications from the original Project 949 included a longer hull for reduced hydrodynamic drag and improved internal arrangement, resulting in a quieter platform. Construction occurred primarily at the Severodvinsk shipyards, with the lead boat commissioned in 1993. The class has faced challenges throughout its service life, including maintenance difficulties stemming from the collapse of the Soviet Union and subsequent funding shortages, impacting operational availability. However, the remaining units represent a crucial element of the Russian Navy's strategic anti-surface warfare capabilities.

The primary role of the Oscar II is anti-surface warfare (ASuW), with a secondary self-defense anti-aircraft warfare (AAW) capability. The submarine is designed to operate independently in distant ocean areas, locating and engaging enemy surface combatants, particularly aircraft carriers and their escorts. The massive salvo launch capability of its SS-N-19 missiles is intended to overwhelm enemy defenses. The inclusion of the SA-N-8 Gremlin mast launcher provides limited close-in air defense against aircraft and anti-ship missiles. Furthermore, the suite of 533mm and 650mm torpedo tubes allows for engagement of both surface and subsurface targets at shorter ranges. While not optimized for ASW, the Oscar II can contribute to area denial operations against enemy submarines.

The PLARK-949A’s effectiveness relies on its sophisticated sensor suite. The Shark Tail [Pelmida] towed array sonar provides long-range passive detection capabilities, essential for locating targets at significant distances. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] fire control system integrates targeting data and manages missile launches, crucial for coordinating attacks with the SS-N-19 Shipwreck. The Shark Gill [MGK-501 Skat-KS] sonar suite offers comprehensive acoustic situational awareness, including active and passive modes, as well as mine detection. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] radar is likely used for surface search and navigation, providing vital information for operating in complex environments. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] is an ASW detection system, specifically for cavitation. Furthermore, the integration of acoustic intercept sensors allows the submarine to detect and analyze enemy sonar emissions, improving its stealth and evasion capabilities. The combination of optical and low-light television (LLTV) periscopes further enhances situational awareness when operating at periscope depth.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 154.0 m || Beam: 18.2 m || Draft: 9.0 m || Disp: 13900 t

SENSORS: Shark Tail [Pelmida] || Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Shark Gill [MGK-501 Skat-KS] || Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: SS-N-19 Shipwreck || SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector