OVERVIEW: The PLARK-949AM Oscar III [Antey] is a nuclear-powered, guided missile submarine (SSGN) in service with the Russian Navy, commissioned in 2023. This vessel represents a significant upgrade to the Project 949A Antey (Oscar II) class, incorporating modernized sensors, improved weaponry, and enhanced stealth characteristics.

DETAILS: The Project 949A Antey design originated in the Soviet era as a dedicated anti-carrier strike platform, intended to neutralize US Navy carrier battle groups. The original Oscar II class was designed to operate in forward positions, using its powerful sensors and long-range anti-ship missiles to overwhelm enemy defenses. The PLARK-949AM represents a substantial modernization effort, extending the operational life and enhancing the capabilities of this formidable submarine. While retaining the core hull design, the upgrade program focused on integrating new electronics, improving noise reduction measures, and incorporating a wider range of weapon systems to adapt to the evolving threat landscape. The Antey design features a distinctive double-hull construction for enhanced survivability, and the missile tubes are angled outwards, giving the class its unique profile.

The primary roles of the PLARK-949AM remain centered on anti-surface warfare (ASuW), with a secondary capability for anti-submarine warfare (ASW). However, the modernization program has significantly enhanced its land-attack capabilities. The primary ASuW armament consists of the 3R-14UKSK-Kh VLS system, capable of launching SS-N-26 Strobile (P-800 Oniks) and potentially the SS-N-27 Sizzler (3M54 Kalibr) anti-ship missiles. These missiles provide a long-range strike capability against surface combatants. For ASW engagements, the 533mm and 650mm torpedo tubes can launch a variety of torpedoes and anti-submarine missiles. The SA-N-8 Gremlin mast launcher provides a limited self-defense anti-air warfare (AAW) capability against helicopters and low-flying aircraft.

The sensor suite of the PLARK-949AM has been comprehensively upgraded. The Shark Tail [Pelmida] sonar suite provides long-range passive and active detection capabilities. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] fire control system integrates sensor data and guides the submarine's weapons. The Shark Gill [MGK-501 Skat-KS] sonar system is used for close-range detection and classification. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-58 Radian] radar system provides surface search and navigation capabilities. The Generic Acoustic Intercept system allows for the detection and analysis of enemy sonar emissions. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] hydroacoustic warfare system offers countermeasures against enemy torpedoes. The Generic Submarine Periscope (Optical and LLTV) provides visual observation capabilities. These sensor upgrades significantly enhance the PLARK-949AM's situational awareness and targeting capabilities.

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: SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector || 3R-14UKSK-Kh VLS [48 Cells, SS-N-26/27/30]