Project 971A

Description: The Project 971-class nuclear-powered submarines, Akula NATO-codename and Schuka-B Russian designation, have been designed to engage surface ships, submarines, and ground targets using nuclear and conventional weapons. They feature a double-hull design with four 533mm and four 650mm torpedo tubes. They can launch torpedoes, missiles, mines and rockets through the eight torpedo tubes.

The Project 971A, Akula II NATO-codename, features the quietest propulsion system produced for a nuclear-powered submarine in the former Soviet Union/Russia. It is powered by a single OK-650M pressurized water nuclear reactor developing 190 MW of power coupled with a steam turbine of 43,000-hp. The hull is four meters longer than previous Project 971 submarines. Besides improved stealth features, Akula II submarines are equipped with six 533mm and four 650mm torpedo tubes with automated systems requiring a lower crew.

So far, the Russian Navy has commissioned six Project 971A third-generation multi-purpose submarines but the exact number of boats to be commissioned remains uncertain. As of summer 2009, it seems that the Russian Navy will shift the procurement of new multi-purpose nuclear-powered submarines to the fourth generation Project 885 Yasen class. India purchased an Akula II nuclear-powered attack submarine under a secret deal with Russia signed in January 2004. Apparently, the ship named INS Chakra is the K-152 Nerpa expected to be commissioned by the Russian Navy by the end of 2009. The Nerpa/Chakra will be leased to the Indian Navy for 10 years.