**OVERVIEW:** The PLA-971M Akula II [Shchuka-B] is a nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) operated by the Russian Navy.

**DETAILS:**

The Project 971 Shchuka-B (NATO reporting name Akula II) represents a significant advancement in Soviet, and subsequently Russian, submarine design. Developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s by the Rubin Design Bureau, the Akula II class incorporates advanced noise reduction techniques, improved sensors, and a more versatile weapons suite compared to earlier Soviet submarine designs. The program aimed to create a submarine capable of directly challenging the quietest Western submarines, particularly the US Navy's Seawolf class. Construction occurred across several shipyards, and the collapse of the Soviet Union led to program delays and modifications, resulting in variations within the class. The PLA-971M designation indicates a modernized variant, incorporating further refinements and upgrades to onboard systems. Commissioned in 2005, this particular vessel benefits from lessons learned during the initial Akula II construction period and from integration of more modern electronic components.

The PLA-971M is primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) roles. Its advanced acoustic sensors, notably the Shark Rib [MGK-540 Skat-3] suite, including Shark Tail [MG-541 Skat-3] and Shark Gill [MGK-540 Skat-3] arrays, provide long-range detection and tracking capabilities against both submarines and surface ships. The installation of the Snoop Pair [MRKP-59] radar allows for surface search and navigation, while the Generic Acoustic Intercept receiver is employed for detecting and analyzing enemy sonar emissions. The Mouse Roar [MG-519 Arfa-M] is utilized for mine detection and avoidance. Furthermore, the presence of a SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] mast launcher hints at a limited anti-air warfare (AAW) capability for self-defense against maritime patrol aircraft and helicopters.

The PLA-971M's operational effectiveness is significantly enhanced by its sophisticated armament. Six torpedo tubes, accepting both 533mm and 650mm torpedoes, provide considerable firepower against a variety of targets. The 533mm tubes are likely used for anti-submarine torpedoes and anti-ship missiles, while the larger 650mm tubes may accommodate heavier, longer-range torpedoes or specialized ASW weapons. The MG-114 Berilly (likely indicating the presence of RK-55 Granat cruise missiles) provides a significant land attack capability, greatly increasing the submarine's overall strategic value. The inclusion of a signal ejector facilitates underwater communication and decoy deployment. The vessel's combination of advanced sensors, potent weaponry, and enhanced stealth characteristics make it a formidable asset in the Russian Navy's submarine force.

**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 || SOKS

**ARMAMENT:** MG-114 Berilly [6x TT] || SA-N-8 Gremlin [9K34 Strela-3] Mast Launcher || 533mm TT || 650mm TT || Signal Ejector