**OVERVIEW:** The PLA-671RTMK Victor III [Shchuka] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) currently in service with the Russian Navy.

**DETAILS:**
The PLA-671RTMK Victor III, a modified variant of the Project 671RTM Shchuka (Pike) class, represents a significant advancement in Soviet, and later Russian, submarine technology. The original Project 671 design, developed in the 1960s, sought to create a fast, deep-diving attack submarine capable of challenging American SSNs, particularly the *Los Angeles*-class. The RTMK variant, entering service in 2017 (implying a modernization program or a new build within the existing design parameters), likely incorporates updated electronics, improved noise reduction measures, and enhanced weaponry compared to earlier vessels. The Victor III class is distinguished by its distinctive 'shark gill' passive sonar array mounted on the hull, a prominent feature that aided in long-range detection and classification of enemy vessels. The design philosophy prioritized acoustic stealth and striking power, enabling it to operate effectively in both open ocean and littoral environments.

The primary role of the PLA-671RTMK Victor III is anti-submarine warfare (ASW), hunting and neutralizing enemy submarines, particularly ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and attack submarines (SSNs). Its secondary roles encompass anti-surface warfare (ASuW), targeting enemy surface combatants, and potentially, clandestine operations. The vessel’s enhanced sensor suite provides a significant advantage in detecting and tracking targets. The Shark Gill [MGK-500 Skat-1] sonar, in conjunction with the Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-1] towed array sonar, allows for long-range passive detection and accurate targeting data. The Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] radar provides surface search capabilities, while the Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] electronic warfare support measures (ESM) system enables the vessel to identify and classify radar emissions, providing situational awareness and early warning of potential threats. The presence of the SA-N-8 Gremlin missile system provides a limited self-defense AAW capability.

The armament of the PLA-671RTMK Victor III provides a versatile strike capability. The 650mm torpedo tubes are capable of launching heavy torpedoes or anti-ship missiles, while the 533mm torpedo tubes can deploy a variety of torpedoes and cruise missiles. The specific types of torpedoes and missiles carried are likely to include advanced homing torpedoes and anti-ship missiles designed to engage both surface and subsurface targets. The inclusion of a signal ejector allows for the deployment of countermeasures and communication devices without compromising the submarine’s acoustic signature. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] sonar provides active sonar capabilities, particularly useful in close-quarters combat or in environments with high levels of ambient noise. The generic submarine periscopes (optical and LLTV) provide visual reconnaissance capabilities.

**SPECIFICATION:** Length: 107.2 m || Beam: 10.8 m || Draft: 7.2 m || Disp: 5000 t

**SENSORS:** Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-1] || Shark Gill [MGK-500 Skat-1] || Park Lamp || Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] || Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] || 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 || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector || 533mm TT || 533mm TT