The Russian Navy's Yasen Modernized SSGN (Nuclear-Powered Cruise Missile Submarine), also known as Project 885M Yasen-M, is an advanced nuclear-powered submarine designed to enhance the capabilities of the Russian Navy.
Here’s a detailed technical summary:
General Specifications • Class: Yasen-M (Project 885M) • Displacement: Approximately 13,800 tons submerged
• Length: 139 meters (456 feet)
• Beam: 13 meters (43 feet)
• Draft: 9.4 meters (31 feet)
• Propulsion: Nuclear reactor with a steam turbine and a single shaft, delivering around 43,000 shaft horsepower Propulsion and Performance
• Speed: Capable of speeds up to (28 kts public number) 35 knots probable (65 km/h; 40 mph) submerged
• Range: Virtually unlimited range due to nuclear propulsion; limited only by food and maintenance requirements
• Endurance: Can remain submerged for extended periods, reportedly up to 100 days, depending on mission requirements and crew sustainability Armament
• Missile Systems:
o Vertical Launch System (VLS): Equipped with up to 32 VLS cells for various cruise missiles, including the Kalibr and Oniks (SS-N-26) missiles. Capable of carrying hypersonic Zircon missiles.
o Torpedo Tubes: Eight 533 mm (21 inches) torpedo tubes capable of launching torpedoes, anti-ship, and anti-submarine missiles. Also supports mine-laying operations.
• Missile Range: o Kalibr Missiles: Up to 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles)
o Oniks Missiles: Approximately 600 kilometers (373 miles)
o Zircon Missiles: Expected to exceed 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) at hypersonic speeds Sensors and Combat Systems
• Sonar: Advanced integrated sonar suite, including a spherical bow sonar array, flank arrays, and towed array sonar system for enhanced detection and tracking capabilities.
• Combat Management System: Modernized automated combat information control system for integrated operations of weapon systems and sensors.
• Electronic Warfare: Equipped with sophisticated electronic warfare and countermeasures systems to detect and neutralize threats. Crew and Habitability
• Crew: Accommodates approximately 64 officers and enlisted personnel
• Habitability: Designed for extended missions with improved crew living conditions, including comfortable berthing spaces, modern galley facilities, and recreational areas. Stealth and Survivability
• Stealth Features: Incorporates advanced acoustic quieting techniques, including anechoic coating, isolated machinery, and improved hydrodynamics to reduce noise and make detection difficult
. • Survivability: Built with a reinforced hull and advanced damage control systems to withstand underwater explosions and combat damage, enhancing its survivability in hostile environments. Operational Role The Yasen-M SSGNs are versatile submarines designed for multiple roles, including:
• Strategic Strike: Capable of delivering precise long-range cruise missile attacks against land and sea targets.
• Anti-Ship Warfare: Equipped to engage surface combatants with advanced anti-ship missiles.
• Anti-Submarine Warfare: Features sophisticated sonar and weaponry to detect and neutralize enemy submarines.
• Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR): Conducts covert operations for gathering intelligence and monitoring adversary movements.
Conclusion The Yasen Modernized SSGN represents a significant advancement in Russian submarine technology, combining formidable offensive capabilities with enhanced stealth and survivability. Its ability to carry a diverse array of advanced missiles, along with its state-of-the-art sensors and combat systems, positions it as a key asset in the Russian Navy's strategic and tactical operations.