**OVERVIEW:** The PLA-671RTMK Victor III [Shchuka] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) of the Victor III class, currently in service with the Russian Navy as of its 2005 recommissioning date.

**DETAILS:**
The Victor III class, designated Project 671RTMK Shchuka by the Soviet Union, represents a significant evolution in Soviet submarine design, intended to counter advancements in Western submarine technology, particularly quieting measures. Development was driven by the need for improved acoustic performance compared to earlier Victor classes, coupled with an increased offensive punch. The distinctive "shark fin" pod visible atop the hull houses the towed array sonar, a critical component for long-range detection and classification of targets in a noisy ocean environment. This design characteristic also contributes to the class's immediately recognizable profile. The Victor III submarines were constructed across multiple shipyards, and saw numerous incremental improvements throughout their production run, with the PLA-671RTMK representing a modernized variant benefiting from lessons learned during earlier construction and operational experience. The 2005 recommissioning suggests a major overhaul and modernization program, likely involving upgrades to onboard systems and potentially enhancing acoustic stealth characteristics.

The primary role of the Victor III class, and therefore the PLA-671RTMK, is anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Its sensor suite, coupled with its torpedo armament, is optimized for hunting and engaging enemy submarines, including ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) and attack submarines (SSNs). While primarily focused on ASW, the Victor III also possesses a credible anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capability, allowing it to engage surface combatants. The SA-N-8 Gremlin surface-to-air missile provides a limited self-defense capability against aerial threats, although its primary reliance remains on stealth and evasion. The inclusion of a signal ejector suggests the capability for deploying countermeasures or communicating with other assets without surfacing, enhancing its operational survivability.

The PLA-671RTMK's effectiveness is significantly enhanced by its comprehensive sensor suite. The Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-1] and Shark Gill [MGK-500 Skat-1] sonar systems provide both active and passive detection capabilities, enabling long-range surveillance and precise targeting. Park Lamp and Brick Pulp [MRP-21 Zaliv-P] likely contribute to electronic warfare and radar detection. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] hydroacoustic warfare system further augments its situational awareness. The Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50 Kaskad] is part of the submarine's fire control systems. Optical and Low-Light Television (LLTV) periscopes enable visual observation and targeting when operating at periscope depth, offering redundancy in sensor information. The combination of 533mm and 650mm torpedo tubes allows the submarine to employ a wide range of ordnance, including anti-submarine and anti-surface torpedoes, catering to diverse tactical scenarios.

**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 || 533mm TT || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector