OVERVIEW: The S 71 Chakra [PLA-971I Akula II] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) operated by the Indian Navy. It represents an advanced iteration of the Soviet-designed Akula II class, designated Project 971I in Russian service, modified and exported to India.

DETAILS:
The Chakra represents India's ambition to maintain a credible nuclear submarine force, providing both strategic deterrence and enhanced underwater warfare capabilities. Originally laid down for the Russian Navy but never completed due to funding constraints following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the vessel was subsequently leased to India. Extensive modifications were undertaken prior to its delivery to meet specific Indian Navy requirements. These modifications likely included integration of indigenous communication and control systems, as well as alterations to the sonar suite and weapons handling equipment to accommodate Indian-manufactured torpedoes and missiles. The acquisition of the Chakra significantly bolstered India’s naval power projection capabilities in the Indian Ocean region.

The primary role of the S 71 Chakra is anti-submarine warfare (ASW), capable of hunting and engaging hostile submarines, particularly those equipped with nuclear weapons. It is also capable of anti-surface warfare (ASuW), posing a significant threat to enemy surface combatants and merchant shipping. Its substantial endurance allows for extended deployments in distant waters, enabling it to conduct intelligence gathering operations and maintain a persistent presence in strategically important areas. The presence of the SA-N-8 Gremlin surface-to-air missile system provides a limited self-defense capability against aerial threats, although the submarine’s primary focus remains submerged operations and evasion.

The Chakra's sensor suite provides comprehensive situational awareness. The Shark Rib [MGK-540 Skat-3] and Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] sonar systems are critical for detecting and tracking underwater targets. The Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] adds to this ASW capability, potentially acting as a flank array. The Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] radar enhances navigational safety and surface contact detection. The Snoop Pair [MRKP-59] radar likely provides electronic warfare support. Acoustic intercept capabilities allow the Chakra to analyze the acoustic signatures of other vessels, providing valuable intelligence. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] system may be used for detecting active sonar transmissions. The vessel is equipped with both a standard optical periscope and a low-light television (LLTV) periscope, allowing for visual observation of the surface environment in varying light conditions. Its torpedo tubes, including the 533mm variety, provide offensive firepower against both submarine and surface targets. The Signal Ejector system allows for the deployment of countermeasures and communication buoys. The MG-114 Berilly torpedo tubes offer a silent launch capability.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 113.3 m || Beam: 13.6 m || Draft: 9.7 m || Disp: 8470 t

SENSORS: Shark Rib [MGK-540 Skat-3] || Rim Hat [Kremlin-2] || Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] || Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] || Snoop Pair [MRKP-59] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical || Generic Submarine Periscope, LLTV

ARMAMENT: MG-114 Berilly [6x TT] || SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || Signal Ejector