OVERVIEW: The PLA-705K Alfa [Lira] is a high-speed nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) of Soviet origin.

DETAILS: The Project 705K Alfa, known to NATO as the Lira class, represented a radical departure from conventional submarine design. Driven by a requirement for exceptional speed and maneuverability, the Alfa was designed around a compact, lead-cooled fast reactor. This innovative powerplant, while offering significant performance advantages, posed numerous engineering challenges and contributed to a complex and expensive construction process. Development prioritized automating shipboard systems to reduce crew size significantly, reflecting Soviet emphasis on efficient resource utilization. The 'K' designation indicates a modified variant of the original Project 705 design, incorporating improvements learned from initial operational experience. The Alfa class was intended to operate in a forward position, hunting NATO ballistic missile submarines and surface combatants.

The PLA-705K Alfa's primary role was anti-submarine warfare (ASW), specifically targeting high-value NATO assets like ballistic missile submarines and aircraft carriers. Secondary roles included anti-surface warfare (ASuW) operations against enemy surface combatants. Although not optimized for covert operations in shallow waters, the Alfa's high speed and advanced sensors allowed it to effectively patrol strategic chokepoints and oceanic areas. The Soviet Navy envisioned the Alfa class as an integral part of its layered ASW defense, capable of rapidly intercepting and engaging enemy submarines.

The sensor suite of the PLA-705K Alfa provided a robust detection and targeting capability. The installation of the Mouse Roar [MGK-1000 Okean] and Squid Arm [MGK-1000 Okean] sonar systems facilitated long-range detection and tracking of underwater targets. These systems provided both active and passive modes of operation, allowing the Alfa to tailor its search strategy to specific tactical situations. The Bald Head [RKP] system likely refers to a radio direction finder, enabling the submarine to intercept and analyze enemy radio communications. The Snoop Head [Bukhta] electronic warfare support measures (ESM) system provided further situational awareness by detecting and analyzing radar emissions from surface vessels and aircraft. The Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] radar served for navigation, surface search, and target designation. Supplementing the electronic sensors, two periscopes (one optical and one incorporating Low Light Television (LLTV)) allowed for visual observation of the surrounding environment, particularly useful in shallow water or during periods of reduced sonar effectiveness.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 81.4 m || Beam: 9.5 m || Draft: 7.6 m || Disp: 2800 t

SENSORS: Bald Head [RKP] || Mouse Roar [MGK-1000 Okean] || Squid Arm [MGK-1000 Okean] || Snoop Head [Bukhta] || Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || 533mm TT || Signal Ejector