OVERVIEW: The PLARB-667BD Delta II [Murena-M] is a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN) operated by the Russian Navy, commissioned in 1992. It represents a development of the Project 667BDR (Delta III) class, incorporating enhancements in acoustic signature reduction and missile payload.

DETAILS: The Delta II-class, designated Project 667BD Murena-M by the Russian Navy, represents a vital component of Russia's strategic nuclear deterrent. The design emerged from a need to improve upon the earlier Delta III class, primarily focusing on reducing acoustic detectability and increasing the accuracy of its submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). The design incorporated advanced noise reduction techniques, including improved hull insulation, quieter machinery, and optimized propeller design, making it significantly harder to detect than its predecessor. These improvements extended the submarine’s operational lifespan and enhanced its survivability against increasingly sophisticated anti-submarine warfare (ASW) tactics. The submarine hull features a double-hull construction providing improved buoyancy and structural integrity in the harsh arctic environment.

The primary role of the PLARB-667BD is strategic deterrence, achieved through its ability to launch nuclear-tipped SS-N-8 Sawfly Mod 2 SLBMs from submerged positions. While ASW capabilities are present, they are secondary to its strategic mission. Its sensors and armament reflect this focus. The submarine can operate independently for extended periods, patrolling vast ocean areas and remaining undetected for considerable durations. The integration of the Snoop Tray 2 (MRK-50 Kaskad) electronic warfare support measures (ESM) suite enhances the submarine’s situational awareness by detecting and analyzing radar emissions from surface ships and aircraft, enabling it to evade potential threats. The inclusion of 400mm torpedo tubes offers a limited self-defense capability against subsurface threats.

The suite of sensors aboard the Delta II-class represents a balance between detection and evasion. The Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] and Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] sonar systems provide active and passive detection and ranging of surface and subsurface contacts, enabling the submarine to navigate and identify potential threats. The Brick Pulp [MRP-10] radar provides surface search and navigation capabilities. The Mine Avoidance [MG-14 Arfa-G] sonar is crucial for safe navigation in heavily mined areas, safeguarding the vessel during transit. The presence of both optical and low-light television (LLTV) submarine periscopes allows for visual observation of the surface in various lighting conditions, supplementing sonar data with visual confirmation when operating in shallower waters or near potential targets. The 533mm torpedo tubes, along with the 400mm tubes, allow the submarine to defend itself and engage surface targets if necessary. The Signal Ejector system allows for communication without directly surfacing, further minimizing the risk of detection.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 155.0 m || Beam: 12.0 m || Draft: 8.8 m || Disp: 9350 t

SENSORS: Shark Teeth [MKG-100 Kerch] || Shark Fin [MKG-100 Kerch] || Brick Pulp [MRP-10] || 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 || SS-N-8 Sawfly Mod 2 SLBM || 400mm TT || Signal Ejector