OVERVIEW: The S 161 *Nabajatra* [Type 035G Ming] is a diesel-electric powered attack submarine operated by the Bangladesh Navy. Acquired in 2018, it represents a significant enhancement to Bangladesh's underwater warfare capabilities.

DETAILS:
The Type 035G Ming-class submarine is a development of the earlier Type 033 Romeo-class, incorporating improvements in noise reduction and sensor technology. Designed and built by China, the Type 035G sought to address some of the shortcomings of the older Romeo design, specifically with regards to acoustic signature and detection range. While not a revolutionary design, the Type 035G offers a cost-effective and relatively quiet submarine platform, suitable for littoral operations and anti-shipping roles. The design prioritizes simplicity and maintainability over cutting-edge technology, making it a practical choice for nations seeking to establish or expand their submarine fleet. The acquisition by Bangladesh signals a strategic interest in securing its maritime borders and projecting power within the Bay of Bengal.

The primary roles of the *Nabajatra* are likely anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence gathering. While not optimized for air defense (AAW), its presence can still influence the operational environment for surface combatants. The vessel's torpedo armament provides a significant threat to enemy surface ships and submarines. Given its relatively shallow draft, the *Nabajatra* is well-suited for operations in the coastal waters of Bangladesh and the surrounding region. The deployment of such a platform underscores Bangladesh's commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and deterring potential adversaries.

The sensor suite of the *Nabajatra* includes a range of Chinese and potentially other, unspecified, systems. The China Type 921-A 'Golf Ball' sonar is likely a low-frequency active/passive search sonar. The China SQG-2B sonar, believed to be a variant of the DUUX 5, provides enhanced detection capabilities compared to older designs. The China SQC-1 sonar, consisting of DSUV 2H and DUUA 2D components, provides active and passive sonar capabilities respectively, likely focusing on target classification and localization. The 'Snoop Tray 2' MRK-50E Kaskad electronic support measures (ESM) system allows for the detection and analysis of radar emissions from surface vessels and aircraft, providing valuable situational awareness. A generic acoustic intercept system would further aid in identifying and classifying underwater sounds. The combination of a standard submarine periscope and an optical rangefinder are critical for visual identification and targeting.

SPECIFICATION: Length: 76.0 m || Beam: 7.6 m || Draft: 5.1 m || Disp: 1584 t

SENSORS: China Type 921-A Golf Ball || China SQG-2B [DUUX 5] || China SQC-1 [DSUV 2H + DUUA 2D] || Snoop Tray 2 [MRK-50E Kaskad] || Generic Acoustic Intercept || Generic Submarine Periscope, Optical

ARMAMENT: 533mm TT || Signal Ejector