OVERVIEW: The PLA-945 Sierra I [Barrakuda] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) designed and operated by the Soviet Union. Entering service in 1984, the Sierra I class represents a significant advancement in Soviet submarine technology, characterized by its titanium alloy hull construction.

DETAILS:
The Sierra I class, designated Project 945 Barrakuda by the Soviet Union, emerged from a requirement for a high-speed, deep-diving attack submarine capable of challenging the latest Western submarine designs. The primary design goal was to maximize survivability and effectiveness in a high-threat environment. The use of a titanium alloy hull was central to achieving these objectives, granting the Sierra I exceptional resistance to pressure, allowing for significantly deeper operational depths compared to submarines constructed with traditional steel hulls. This also resulted in a lighter hull, contributing to improved speed and maneuverability. The Sierra I design incorporated advanced noise reduction techniques to minimize its acoustic signature, enhancing its stealth capabilities.

The Sierra I's primary role was anti-submarine warfare (ASW), tasked with hunting and engaging enemy submarines, particularly ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and attack submarines (SSNs). It also possesses anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capabilities, enabling it to engage surface combatants. While secondary, a limited anti-air warfare (AAW) capability is provided by the SA-N-8 Gremlin mast-mounted launcher, allowing for self-defense against aerial threats. The submarine’s sensor suite is optimized for detecting and tracking both submarine and surface targets. The Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] and Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] sonar systems provide comprehensive acoustic coverage, while the Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] sonar intercepts passively identifies and classifies targets from emitted acoustic signatures. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] radar provides surface search and navigation capabilities. The SOKS (System of Observation of the Wake) aids in detecting enemy submarines.

Technically, the Sierra I boasts a formidable array of sensors and weaponry. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] navigation radar provides accurate positioning and situational awareness. The combination of 533mm and 650mm torpedo tubes allows for the deployment of a diverse range of ordnance, including anti-submarine torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and mines. The 650mm tubes are particularly suited for launching long-range, heavy torpedoes or anti-ship missiles, providing a significant offensive punch. The presence of a signal ejector indicates the capability for deploying countermeasures and decoys to confuse enemy sonar systems and enhance survivability. The optical and LLTV submarine periscopes provide enhanced visual situational awareness, allowing for surface target identification and navigation in littoral environments.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 107.0 m || Beam: 11.5 m || Draft: 9.0 m || Disp: 7200 t

SENSORS: Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] || Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] || Park Lamp || Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV || SOKS

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