OVERVIEW: The MS-29 Yono is a diesel-electric submarine of North Korean origin. Believed to be indigenously designed and constructed, it represents a significant, albeit limited, underwater warfare capability for the Korean People's Navy (KPN).

DETAILS: The Yono class is thought to be derived from midget submarine designs, possibly with external assistance in the design phase. Development likely began in the early 2000s, with the first units entering service around 2008. The design philosophy emphasizes coastal defense and clandestine operations within the confined waters of the Korean peninsula. The submarine's small size allows it to operate in shallow waters and navigate complex coastlines, making it difficult to detect and track. The Yono class is intended to augment the KPN's larger, more capable Romeo and Sang-O class submarines, providing a cost-effective means of projecting power and conducting special operations. Its construction signifies a determined effort by North Korea to maintain a credible, albeit asymmetric, naval deterrent.

The primary role of the Yono class is likely anti-surface warfare (ASuW) and special operations forces (SOF) insertion. Given its limited sensor suite and armament, it is not suitable for sustained anti-submarine warfare (ASW) or anti-air warfare (AAW) operations. The 533mm torpedo tubes provide a capability to engage surface combatants and merchant shipping, although the specific type of torpedo employed remains uncertain. Given the operational context, it is probable that the Yono class is tasked with laying mines in strategic waterways or conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions in support of larger fleet operations. The design also facilitates the deployment of small teams of special forces personnel for covert operations. The coastal waters around the Korean peninsula present unique challenges for submarine operations. The shallow depth, heavy maritime traffic, and strong currents make detection difficult, yet also present significant navigational hazards. The Yono class’ small size is an asset in this environment.

The Yono class's sensor suite is relatively basic, reflecting its limited operational scope and the technological constraints under which it was developed. The generic surface search radar allows for the detection of surface contacts at close to medium ranges, providing a crucial element for navigation and target acquisition. The active/passive attack sonar provides some degree of underwater awareness, allowing the submarine to detect and track submerged targets, although its effectiveness in noisy coastal environments is likely limited. The installation of optical and low-light television (LLTV) periscopes enhances the submarine's ability to conduct visual reconnaissance and surveillance operations, particularly in shallow water environments where sonar performance may be degraded. The 533mm torpedo tubes can launch a range of torpedoes although, it is believed that they are likely limited to older Soviet-era designs or locally produced variants. The overall design of the Yono class reflects a balance between operational requirements and the technological capabilities and resources available to North Korea.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 29.0 m || Beam: 2.75 m || Draft: 2.0 m || Disp: 120 t

SENSORS: Generic Surface Search Radar || Generic Active/Passive Attack Sonar || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT