OVERVIEW: The S 119 *Astute* is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) operated by the United Kingdom's Royal Navy. Commissioned in 2018, it represents a significant advance in British submarine technology, offering enhanced capabilities in anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence gathering.

DETAILS:
The *Astute* class represents a generational leap over the preceding *Trafalgar* class, incorporating lessons learned from previous submarine designs and integrating cutting-edge technologies. The program faced initial challenges, including cost overruns and delays, but ultimately delivered a highly capable platform. The design philosophy emphasized stealth, endurance, and firepower, resulting in a submarine with significantly reduced acoustic signature, extended operational range, and a diverse range of mission capabilities. The submarine’s construction incorporates advanced materials and manufacturing techniques to minimize noise generation and improve structural integrity.

The *Astute* class submarines are primarily designed for ASW operations, hunting and neutralizing enemy submarines. However, they are also highly capable in ASuW roles, posing a significant threat to surface combatants and merchant shipping. Furthermore, their advanced sensor suite and communications capabilities allow them to conduct intelligence gathering and surveillance missions in support of national security objectives. They are able to operate independently for extended periods, deploying covertly to areas of strategic interest and providing critical intelligence to decision-makers. The submarines also possess the capability to support special operations forces.

The S 119 *Astute*'s sensor suite is a key element of its operational effectiveness. The Type 2076 integrated sonar suite, incorporating the Type 2065, Type 2079, and Type 2072 sonars, provides exceptional underwater situational awareness. The Type 2082 passive towed array sonar enhances the submarine’s ability to detect and track distant targets. The Type 1007 navigation radar allows for safe navigation and surface contact detection. The UAP-4 Electronic Support Measures (ESM) system provides electronic intelligence gathering capabilities, while the CM010 optronic mast replaces a traditional periscope, providing high-resolution imagery and video while minimizing the submarine's detectability. The platform is armed with the Spearfish torpedoes which provide a potent ASW and ASuW capability. The inclusion of the SSE Mk10 countermeasures system provides a robust defense against torpedo attacks.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 97.0 m || Beam: 10.7 m || Draft: 10.0 m || Disp: 6500 t

SENSORS: Type 1007 || Type 2065 [Type 2076 Suite] || Type 2079 [Type 2076 Suite] || Type 2082 || Type 2072 [Type 2076 Suite] || UAP-4 || CM010 Photonics Mast

ARMAMENT: SSE Mk10 || 533mm TT