OVERVIEW: The S 71 Chakra [PLARK-670 Charlie I] is a Project 670 Charlie I-class nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine (SSGN) operated by the Indian Navy. Originally commissioned within the Soviet Navy, it was later leased to India, providing a significant boost to the Indian Navy's undersea warfare capabilities.

DETAILS: The Project 670 Charlie I (designated PLARK-670 by the Soviets – Podvodnaya Lodka Atomnaya Raketnaya Krylataya, or Nuclear-Powered Submarine Cruise Missile) was conceived in the late 1950s as a dedicated platform for launching anti-ship cruise missiles against surface combatants, particularly aircraft carriers. The design prioritized submerged launch capability, allowing for covert engagement of enemy fleets. Unlike earlier Soviet submarine designs that relied on surface-launched missiles, the Charlie I incorporated eight missile tubes angled forward in the bow section. This design philosophy emphasized offensive strike capability and was intended to counter perceived threats from Western carrier battle groups. The Charlie I-class represented a significant step forward in Soviet submarine technology, paving the way for later, more advanced SSGN designs. The lease of a Charlie I-class submarine to India, later named the Chakra, marked a significant transfer of technology and operational experience.

The Chakra's primary role is anti-surface warfare (ASuW), with a secondary capability in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) for self-defense. Its ability to launch cruise missiles while submerged allows it to engage enemy surface combatants from a standoff range, minimizing the submarine's exposure to counter-attack. While primarily an offensive platform, the Chakra also provides a valuable intelligence-gathering asset for the Indian Navy. The submarine’s presence in the Indian Ocean contributes to maritime security and power projection capabilities within the region. The operational experience gained from the Chakra has been invaluable in the development of India's indigenous submarine programs and tactical doctrine.

The Chakra's sensor suite provides comprehensive situational awareness. The Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] and Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] sonars likely contribute to active and passive detection of surface and subsurface contacts, respectively. Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] provides electronic warfare support, capable of intercepting and analyzing enemy radar emissions. The Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] system offers fire control solutions, integrating target data for missile engagements. Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] significantly enhances navigational safety in mine-infested waters. Optical and LLTV periscopes provide visual and low-light observation capabilities. The platform's main armament includes the SS-N-7 Starbright anti-ship missile, launched from the angled tubes. The 533mm torpedo tubes provide a self-defense capability against submarines and surface vessels, while the signal ejector enhances communication capabilities.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 95.0 m || Beam: 10.0 m || Draft: 8.0 m || Disp: 4000 t

SENSORS: Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] || Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] || Park Lamp || Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] || Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || Signal Ejector || 533mm TT || SS-N-7 Starbright