Nahang Class Submarine

The Nahang class is an Iranian-made submarine class.

Being one of Iran's largest defense expenditures, the Nahang submarine is Iran's second attempt at designing and manufacturing submarines. In service since March 2006, the Nahang 1 is fully compatible to conditions in the Persian Gulf. It provides the navy with varied options for its use. Its design and construction involved 220 researchers and 1.2 million hours of scientific and industrial work.

After the Ghadir submarine, the Nahang submarine is Iran's second domestically produced submarine.

The Nahang 1 has a surface search radar and communications masts, which make it unsuitable for harbor infiltration, but well usable for reasonably clandestine mine-laying. It is said to be a sonar-evading stealth submarine. Iranian officials claim the Nahang is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic equipment and can fire missiles and torpedoes simultaneously, but no information was given on the range of these weapons. Nahang means "whale" in Persian.

Ghadir Class Submarine

Ghadir is a class of midget submarines built in Iran. It is named after Ghadir Khumm, a place in Saudi Arabia that is holy to Shia Muslims.

On 24 November 2007 Iranian rear-admiral Habibollah Sayyari announced: "A home-made destroyer called 'Jamaran' and a home-made submarine of Ghadir class will launch operation on November 28." He also said that the submarine is equipped with the latest military and technological equipment and that its capabilities are equal to that of foreign types.

Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei was quoted saying: "Today, you have been able to design and build many of the military requirements. We have become self-sufficient from other countries," to Iran's navy commanders on the day the submarine was launched. New Ghadir submarines were delivered to the Iranian navy on June 2009 and August 2010. The Ghadir resembles the North Korean Sang-O class submarine.

Class overview
Builders:	Defense Industries Organization
Operators:	Islamic Republic of Iran Navy
Preceded by:	Nahang Class
Succeeded by:	Qaaem class submarine
In service:	28 November 2007
Completed:	10
General characteristics
Tonnage:	120 tonnes
Displacement:	115 tons surfaced
Length:	29 m
Beam:	~3 m
Draught:	~2.5 m
Propulsion:	Diesel-electric propulsion
Speed:	11 knots
Complement:	18
Armament:	2 x 533mm torpedos, mines

Type 214 Class Submarine

The Type 214 is a diesel-electric submarine developed by Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft GmbH (HDW). It features diesel propulsion with an air-independent propulsion (AIP) system using Siemens polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cells. The Type 214 submarine is derived from the Type 212, but as an export variant it lacks some of the classified technologies of its smaller predecessor.

A contract to build three boats for the Hellenic Navy was signed 15 February 2000 and a fourth one was ordered in June 2002. The first boat was built at HDW in Kiel, Germany and the rest at the Hellenic Shipyards Co. in Skaramangas, Greece. The Hellenic Navy named them the Papanikolis class.

The Republic of Korea Navy has ordered nine Type 214 submarines, designated as Son Won-Il class, to be built in Korea by Hyundai Heavy Industries and Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering; three first batch models had entered service since 2007, and six second batch models will enter service from 2012.

Due to improvements in the pressure hull materials, the Type 214 can dive nearly 400 meters. The Type 214 can carry food, fresh water and fuel for 84 days of operation.

Type 214 Class Submarine
Builders:	HDW Hellenic Shipyards Co. Hyundai Heavy Industries Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Gölcük Naval Shipyard
Operators:	Republic of Korea Navy Hellenic Navy Portuguese Navy
Subclasses:	Tridente-class submarine
Cost:	$330 million (2008)
In service:	2007
Building:	2
Planned:	15
Completed:	9
Active:	6
General characteristics
Displacement:	1,690 t (surfaced), 1,860 t (submerged)
Length:	213 feet 3 inches (65.0 m)
Beam:	20 feet 8 inches (6.3 m)
Draught:	19 feet 8 inches (6.0 m)
Propulsion:	Diesel-electric, fuel cell AIP, low noise skew back propeller
Speed:	12 kt surfaced 20 kt submerged
Range:	12,000 miles (19,300 km) surfaced 420 nmi (780 km) @ 8 kt 1,248 nmi (2,311 km) @ 4 kt
Endurance:	84 days
Test depth:	250m (400m theoretical)
Complement:	5 officers + 22 crew
Armament:	(8) 533 mm torpedo tubes, (4) subharpoon-capable

Qaaem Class Submarine

Qaaem, Qaem or Ghaaem is an Iranian designed class of semi-heavy submarines. The first ship of this class, Qaaem, is currently under construction. On 25 August 2008, Iranian defence minister Mostafa Mohammad-Najjar announced Iran had started building their first semi-heavy submarine: Qaaem. The submarine would be capable of carrying and firing various types of torpedoes and undersea missiles. According to the Iranian Navy these Submarines will weigh over 1,000 tons. Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, said that they would be equipped with torpedoes and naval mines. He also said: "the smart long-range Qaa'em submarine is also capable of carrying out both defensive and offensive operations".

Andrasta Class Submarine

Andrastra is a submarine design concept announced by the French shipbuilder DCNS in 2008. A development of the Scorpene class and based on the previous SMX-23 concept, it is a smaller vessel optimised for shallow water operations. DCNS advertising material for the ship concept, in a PDF document with a date-time stamp of October 19, 2008, includes information and digital illustrations that reveal the torpedo tube configuration and other details. The draught of the proposed submarine is apparent from the numbered depth markings shown on the hull in one of the illustrations. It is designed for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, as well as intelligence gathering and special operations.

Andrasta Class Submarine
Name:	Andrasta
Active:	None
General characteristics
Type:	Submarine, SSK
Displacement:	855 metric tonnes (Surfaced)
Length:	48.8 m
Draught:	6.5 m
Propulsion:	Single-screw diesel-electric, with batteries and AIP.
Speed:	15 knots (28 km/h) (submerged)
Range:	3,000 nautical miles (5,600 km)
Endurance:	5 days (submerged)
Test depth:	>200 meters
Complement:	19 crew, plus 2 passengers and 6 divers
Armament:	Six torpedo tubes, which can also fire anti-ship missiles.
Notes:	Design concept only. No vessels yet ordered.

Soryu Class Submarine

The Soryu class submarine or 16SS is a new class of diesel-electric submarine being built in Japan for use by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. It is an evolved form of the Oyashio class submarine, currently the latest type of conventionally-powered submarine operated by the JMSDF, and it will have a larger displacement than any previous class of submarine used by post war Japan. It can be best visually distinguished from the Oyashio class by the X-shape of the tail planes.

The class will also have an Stirling AIP engine (four 4V-275R Mk-III, power output each 75kW) licensed built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries system, allowing it to stay submerged for longer periods of time.

Prior to SS Soryu, the submarines built for the JMSDF were named after the names of ocean currents. The JMSDF changed its naming convention and list of legendary auspicious animals will be used for following submarines. Sōryū literally means blue dragon in Japanese. She is named after the World War II carrier of the same name, which was sunk during the Battle of Midway.

Class overview
Name:	Sōryū
Builders:	Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation
Operators:	Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
Preceded by:	Oyashio-class submarine
Built:	2005–
In commission:	(2009)–
Building:	2
Planned:	2
Completed:	3
Active:	3
General characteristics
Type:	Submarine
Displacement:	Surfaced: 2,900 tonnes (2,854 long tons) Submerged: 4,200 t (4,134 long tons)
Length:	84.0 m (275 ft 7 in)
Beam:	9.1 m (29 ft 10 in)
Draught:	8.5 m (27 ft 11 in)
Propulsion:	1-shaft 2× Kawasaki 12Ｖ 25/25 SB-type diesel engines diesel-electric 4× Kawasaki Kockums V4-275R Stirling engines 3,900 hp (2,900 kW) surfaced 8,000 hp (6,000 kW) submerged
Speed:	Surfaced: 13 kn (24 km/h; 15 mph) Submerged: 20 kn (37 km/h; 23 mph)
Range:	6100 nautical miles (11297.2 km; 7060.75 miles) at 6.5 knots (12 km/h; 7.48 mp/h) (est.)
Test depth:	900’, 1000’ crush
Complement:	65 (9 officers, 56 enlisted)
Sensors and processing systems:	ZPS-6F surface/low-level air search radar Hughes/Oki ZQQ-7 Sonar suite: 1× bow-array, 4× LF flank arrays and 1× Towed array sonar
Electronic warfare and decoys:	ZLR-3-6 ESM equipment 2× 3-inch underwater countermeasure launcher tubes for launching of Acoustic Device Countermeasures (ADCs)
Armament:	6×HU-606 21 in (533 mm) torpedo tubes with 30 reloads for: 1.) Type 89 torpedoes 2.) UGM-84 Harpoon Mines

Amur Class Submarine

The Amur class submarine, designated as the project 950 Амур, (named for the Amur River), is one of the latest Russian submarine class which are advertised as the export version of the Lada class, a highly improved version of the Kilo-class submarine with much better quieting, new combat systems, and an option for air-independent propulsion.

The new vessel is the 4th generation submarine with the capability of striking salvo missile blows at different targets. The sonar signature level of the submarines of this class is several times lower in comparison with “Kilo” class submarines. These submarines are equipped with radio-electronic weapons of the newer generation created on the basis of the latest achievements in the field of radio-electronics. These submarines can be outfitted with AIP fuel cells, considerably improving submerged endurance and range. AIP capability can be added as hull extension plug either during new build construction or as a refit existing ships.

It is expected that these vessels can operate in all areas of the World Ocean except the areas with solid ice cover, in all weather conditions, in shallow and deep water areas.

Class overview
Builders:	Rubin Design Bureau, Admiralty Shipyard, Saint Petersburg.
Operators:	Russian Navy
Preceded by:	Lada class
Cost:	$100,000,000
Planned:	~11
Completed:	0
Active:	0
General characteristics
Type:	Submarine
Displacement:	950 long tons (970 t) surfaced
Length:	58.8 m (192 ft 11 in)
Beam:	5.65 m (18 ft 6 in)
Height:	6.4 m (21 ft 0 in)
Speed:	20 knots (23 mph; 37 km/h)
Range:	350 nmi (650 km) AIP 3,000 nmi (5,600 km) Snorkel
Endurance:	45 days
Test depth:	250 m (820 ft)
Complement:	18
Armament:	• 4 × 533 mm (21 in) torpedo tubes • 16 torpedoes • 10 VLS cells

Model:	550	750	950	1450	1850
Displacement (surf/subm tons):	550/ 700	750/ 900	950/ 1,300	1,450/ 2,100	1,850/ 2,600
Length (meters):	46.0	48.0	56.0	58.0	68.0
Beam (meters):	4.4	5.0	5.6	7.2	7.2
Height (meters):	5.2	5.8	6.4	8.2	8.2
Speed (knots):	18	17	19	17	22
Range (AIP/ snorkel, nm):	250/ 1500	250/ 3000	350/ 4000	300/ 4000	500/ 6000
Depth (meters):	200	200	250	250	250
Endurance (days):	20	20	30	30	50
Complement:	18	21	21	34	37
Armament:	4 400mm tubes, 8 torps	4 400mm tubes, 16 torps	4 533mm tubes, 12 torps	6 533mm tubes, 16 torps or missiles	6 533mm tubes, 16 torps or missiles

Type 094-Jin Class Submarine

The Type 094 (Jin-class) is a new class of ballistic missile submarine developed by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy. The first-of-class was constructed at Huludao Shipyard in Huludao, Liaoning Province and launched in July 2004. At least two are confirmed to have been launched.

The Type 094 submarine is capable of carrying 12 of the more modern JL-2s with a range of approximately 8,000 km, and is capable of targeting some of the Western Hemisphere from close to the Chinese coast. The Type 094 is believed by some western analysts to incorporate a great deal of Russian technology and will replace the Type 092 submarine (NATO reporting name: Xia class) for the People's Liberation Army Navy.

In its 2008 assessment of China's military, the United States Department of Defense estimated that one Type 094 "may soon enter service", and that "up to five" would be in service by 2010. The United States government has expressed concern over these submarines, saying that the Chinese government has not been transparent enough about the program.

Type 094 - Jin Class
Builders:	Bohai Shipyard, Huludao
Operators:	People's Liberation Army Navy
Preceded by:	Type 092 (Xia class)
Succeeded by:	Type 096 Tang class
In service:	2010
Building:	2 - 3
Planned:	5 (projected)
Completed:	2 (minimum)
General characteristics
Displacement:	8,000 tons surfaced , 9,000 tons submerged
Length:	133 m
Propulsion:	Nuclear reactor, 1 shaft
Speed:	20+ kts
Range:	Unlimited
Armament:	Torpedoes: six 533 mm bow tubes Missiles: 12 JL-2 SLBM 16 JL-2 SLBM (Type 2) 20-24 JL-2 SLBM (Type 3)

Astute Class Submarine

The Astute-class is the latest class of nuclear-powered fleet submarines (SSN) in service with the Royal Navy. The class sets a new standard for the Royal Navy in terms of weapons load, communication facilities and stealth. The boats are being constructed by BAE Systems Submarine Solutions at Barrow-in-Furness.

Seven boats will be constructed. The first of class, Astute, was launched in 2007 and commissioned in 2010, and the second, Ambush, was launched on 6 January 2011.

Astute-class boats are powered by a Rolls-Royce PWR2 (Core H) reactor and fitted with a pump-jet propulsor. The PWR2 reactor was developed for the Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines. As a result Astute-class boats are about 30 per cent larger than previous British attack submarines, which were powered by smaller diameter reactors.

Class overview
Builders:	BAE Systems Submarine Solutions
Operators:	Royal Navy
Preceded by:	Trafalgar class
In commission:	27 August 2010 —
Building:	4: Artful, Audacious, Anson, Agamemnon
Planned:	1: Ajax
Completed:	2: Astute, Ambush
General characteristics
Displacement:	7,400 tonnes submerged
Length:	97 m (323 ft)
Beam:	11.3 m (37 ft)
Draught:	10 m (33 ft)
Propulsion:	Rolls-Royce PWR 2 reactor, MTU 600 kilowatt diesel generators
Speed:	29+ knots (56+ km/h) submerged
Range:	Only limited by food and maintenance requirements.
Test depth:	Over 300 m
Complement:	98 officers and men (capacity for 109)
Sensors and processing systems:	Thales Sonar 2076 Atlas DESO 25 echosounder 2 x Thales CM010 optronic masts Raytheon Successor IFF
Armament:	6 x 21-inch (533 mm) torpedo tubes A combination of up to 38: Spearfish torpedoes Tomahawk Block IV cruise missiles

Like all Royal Navy submarines, the bridge fin of the Astute-class boats is specially reinforced to allow surfacing through ice caps. They can fire Tomahawk cruise missiles from their launch tubes, including the new "tactical Tomahawk" currently under development. More than 39,000 acoustic tiles mask the vessel's sonar signature, giving the Astute class a better stealth quality than any other submarine previously operated by the Royal Navy. The vessel is equipped with the advanced Sonar 2076, which is an integrated passive/active search and attack sonar suite with bow, intercept, flank and towed arrays.

The Astute Combat Management System is an evolved version of the Submarine Command System used on other classes of submarine. The system receives data from the boat's sensors and displays real time imagery on all command consoles. The submarines also have DESO 25 high-precision echosounders, two CM010 non-hull-penetrating optronic masts which carry thermal imaging and low-light TV and colour CCD TV sensors.

The Astute-class submarines can be fitted with a dry deck shelter which allows special forces (e.g. SBS and SAS) to deploy whilst the submarine is submerged.

Astute is the first Royal Navy submarine class to have a bunk for each member of the ship's company, ending the practice of 'hot bunking', whereby two sailors on opposite watches shared the same bunk. However in other respects studies found the Astute human factors design inferior to earlier submarines, such as having less mess-deck space than the Valiant-class submarine built 45 years earlier.

S-80 Class Submarine

The S-80 Class is a series of submarines of advanced technology, of the Spanish Navy that is currently under construction. Initially there will be four units, with a future expansion to six, two of which are already in production by the Spanish company Navantia factory in Cartagena. Their fundamental characteristic is a new propulsion system, designed for a high degree of autonomy under water. Its mission includes: projection of naval power on land, naval special warfare, surveillance, protection of naval forces, and deterrence. The first will enter service in the Spanish Navy in 2013 and the second in 2014. The construction of the third in the series began in 2009. It is expected that construction on the fourth will begin soon, as well as the commissioning of two additional units.

S-80 Class Submarine
Builders:	Navantia, Cartagena
Operators:	Spanish Navy
Preceded by:	Agosta class submarine
Built:	2005-2016
In commission:	2013 -
Building:	4
Planned:	4
General characteristics
Type:	Submarine with AIP
Displacement:	2,200 tonnes surfaced 2,426 tonnes submerged
Length:	71.05 m
Beam:	11.68 m
Draught:	6.02 m
Propulsion:	1 shaft diesel-AIP 3 Bio-ethanol engines (3 x 1,200 kW) 1 electric motor (3,500 kW), 1 AIP fuel cell unit (300 kW)
Speed:	12 knots surfaced 19 knots submerged
Complement:	32 (plus 8 special forces troops)
Armament:	6 - 533 mm torpedo tubes

S-80 Class Submarine Capabilities

The submarines of the S-80 class are designed to better complete their mission in threat scenarios. Their operational mobility will allow them to operate in remote areas, travelling discreetly at high speeds. Their air independent propulsion (AIP) system will ensure their ability to remain long periods of time in an area without being detected and their ability to operate in possible conflict zones.

Their capabilities include:

• A combat system for multiple target acquisition in different scenarios.
• The ability to transport personnel, including special operations forces.
• Low noise and magnetic signatures in order to minimize detection.
• Low radar and infrared signatures in order to minimize detection.

S-80 Propulsion

The AIP (air independent propulsion) implemented on the S-80 is completely different to French MESMA (Module Energie Sous-Marin Autonome) project.

The AIP system is based on a bioethanol-processor (provided by Hynergreen from Abengoa) consisting of a reaction chamber and several intermediate Coprox reactors, that will transform the BioEtOH in high purity hydrogen. The output feds a series of fuel cell from UTC Power company (which also supplies fuel cells for the Space Shuttle).

The Reformator is fed with bioethanol as fuel, and oxygen (stored as a liquid in a high pressure cryogenic tank), generating hydrogen and carbon dioxide as subproduct. This hydrogen and more oxygen is fed to fuel cells

The bioethanol-processor also produces a stream of highly concentrated carbon dioxide and other trace gases that are not burned completely during combustion. This gas flow is mixed with sea water in one or more ejector venturi scrubber and then through a new system called SECO₂ (or CO₂ Removal System), developed by Bionet, and whose purpose is to dissolve the "bubbles" of CO₂ in water to undetectable levels.

The oxygen and fuel flow rates are directly determined by the demand for power. The AIP power in the S-80 submarine is at least 300 kW.

Barracuda Class Submarine

The Barracuda class is a planned nuclear attack submarine class of the French Navy, designed by the French shipbuilder DCNS to replace the Rubis-class submarines.

Barracudas will use technology from the Triomphant class, including pump jet propulsion. This class reportedly produces approximately 1/1000 of the detectable noise of the Redoutable-class boats (submarines), and they are ten times more sensitive in detecting other submarines. They will be fitted with torpedo-tube-launch cruise missiles MDCN SCALP Naval for long-range (1000 km) strikes against land strategics targets. Their missions will include anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, land attack, intelligence gathering, crisis management and special operations. The Barracuda will use X-shaped stern planes.

The Barracuda class nuclear reactor incorporates several improvements over that of the preceding Rubis. Notably, it extends the time between refuelling and complex overhauls (RCOHs) from 7 to 10 years, enabling higher at-sea availability.

In support of special operations missions, Barracudas may also accommodate up to 12 commandos, while carrying their equipment in a mobile pod attached aft of the sail.

On 22 December 2006 the French government placed a €7.9 billion order for six Barracuda submarines with DCN and their nuclear powerplants with Areva-Technicatome. According to the DGA “Competition at the subcontractor level will be open to foreign companies for the first time.” The first submarine will be delivered in 2016. Alain Aupetit, DCN's Barracuda programme director, said “The gap between the delivery of boats one and two will be two-and-a-half years.... After that, we will deliver one boat every two years through to the delivery of the last submarine in 2026.”

Barracuda Class Submarine
Name:	Barracuda
Builders:	DCNS
Operators:	French Navy
Preceded by:	Rubis class
Cost:	Program cost, €8.7 billion Unit cost, €1.453 millions
Building:	2
Planned:	6
Completed:	0
General characteristics
Type:	Nuclear attack submarine
Displacement:	4,765 t surfaced 5,300 t submerged
Length:	99.4 m (326 ft)
Beam:	8,8 m (28.9 ft)
Draught:	7,3 m (24.0 ft)
Decks:	2
Propulsion:	2 turboreductors groups (10 MW propulsion alternator feeding electric engines) Nuclear reactor K15, 150 MW 2 emergency electric engines One pump jet
Speed:	Over 25 knots (46 km/h) 14 knots (26 km/h), surfaced
Range:	10 years (nuclear) 50 days of food
Complement:	12 officers 48 petty officers
Sensors and processing systems:	SYCOBS
Armament:	4 × 533 mm tubes including : 12 x MDCN SCALP Naval missiles Exocet SM39 Block2 and missiles 20 x F21 heavyweight torpedoes

Arihant Class Submarine - Indian Navy ballistic missile submarines

The Arihant class submarines ("Slayer of Enemies") are nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines, being developed for the Indian Navy. The INS Arihant was introduced to the public on July 26, 2009 at a symbolic launch ceremony, which consisted of floating it by flooding the dry dock. The Arihant class is India's first indigenously designed and built submarine. The class is expected to consist of four vessels to be in commission with the Indian Navy by 2015, with a further four vessels planned to follow on. The Arihant class vessels were designed as a part of India's US$2.9 billion project to design and build nuclear-powered submarines.

The Arihant class submarines similar to the Russian Charlie-II class submarine, which India leased from the Soviet Union between 1988 and 1991. Personnel will have the opportunity to train on a Akula-II class nuclear attack submarine it will lease from Russia sometime in the second quarter of 2010. It is conjectured that India may have struck deal for the supply of two of these submarines with an option to purchase them in the future.

Arihant Class Submarine overview
Name:	Arihant
Builders:	Shipbuilding Centre (SBC), Vishakapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
Operators:	Indian Navy
Succeeded by:	Arihant follow-on submarine
In commission:	2011- (est.)
Building:	4
Planned:	4
General characteristics
Type:	Ballistic missile submarine
Displacement:	6,000 tons
Length:	112 m (367 ft)
Beam:	15 m (49 ft) (Est.)
Draft:	10 m (33 ft) (Est.)
Propulsion:	85MW PWR using 40% enriched uranium fuel; 1 turbine (47,000hp/70MW); 1 shaft; 1 7-bladed, high-skew propeller
Speed:	12–15 knots (22–28 km/h) (surfaced); 24 knots (44 km/h) (submerged)
Range:	unlimited except by food supplies
Test depth:	300 m (980 ft) (est)
Complement:	95
Sensors and processing systems:	USHUS Sonar
Armament:	Torpedoes: 6 21" (533mm) torpedo tubes - est. 30 charges (torpedoes, missiles or mines) SLBM - 4 launch tubes (each with 2.4 meter diameter) 12 x K15 SLBM (3 in each launch tube) or 4 x K-4 SLBM (Under development)

The Arihant class submarines may possibly be armed with the existing 750 km K-15 Sagarika SLBM or the under-development K-4, an SLBM version of Agni-III.

Although it was widely speculated, the submarine does not sport either a "bulb" like towed array sonar, or a low blended sail. The glimpses of the submarine provided to the media seems to indicate a design with a blended hump behind the sail for the vertical launchers.

The Arihant class submarines hull features twin flank-array sonars and Rafael broadband expendable anti-torpedo countermeasures. The UPA government's report card carried an image of INS Arihant, which provided the first glimpse of the complete sub.

Type 092 Class Submarine

The 6,500-ton Type 092 class submarine Daqingyu (Xia-class, Chinese designation 09-II) submarine was the first ballistic missile-carrying of People's Liberation Army Navy, nuclear-powered submarine class (SSBN) deployed by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy, and the first SSBN designed and built in Asia. She was designed by Peng Shilu and Huang Xuhua, and derived from the Han-Class SSNs, with an extended hull to accommodate four missile tubes.

The first Changzheng 6 of its class was laid down in 1978 at Huludao 120 miles North-East of Beijing; she was completed in 1981. She then spent 6 years being fitted out and conducting tests with its 12 JL-1 (CSS-N-3) missiles, becoming active in 1987. Later, the submarine went through numerous upgrades in incremental step, including using Type H/SQ2-262B sonar manufactured by No. 613 Factory replacing the original Type 604 sonar on board.

The 092 has undergone numerous refits, currently featuring a new black paint, possible quieting technologies, French designed sonar, and the improved longer ranged JL-1A SLBM. It is reported that the 092 has not sailed beyond Chinese regional waters. One of the two Xias built was reported lost during an accident.

The Xia is aging however and a new Ballistic Missile Submarine design is in the works for the People's Liberation Army Navy. The US Defense Intelligence Agency lists the Xia-Class as being "Not Operational." While its capability is still being questioned, Xia made its world wide debut on April 23rd, 2009 celebrating the 60th anniversary of PLA Navy's founding

The 092 class are homeported in Jianggezhuang near Qingdao.

Type 092 Class Submarine overview
Builders:	Huludao Shipyard
Operators:	People's Liberation Army Navy
Succeeded by:	Type 094 (Jin class)
In service:	1981
Completed:	2
Active:	1
Lost:	1
General characteristics
Displacement:	6,500 tons, 7,000 tons submerged.
Length:	120 m
Beam:	10 m
Draught:	8 m
Propulsion:	1 × pressurized-water nuclear reactor, 58MW; 2 × steam turbines; 1 shaft.
Speed:	22 kts
Range:	Unlimited
Test depth:	300 m
Complement:	100
Armament:	6 × 533 mm torpedo tubes (bow); missiles - 12 JL-1A SLBMs.

Triomphant Class Submarine, French Navy ballistic missile submarines

The Triomphant class submarine is ballistic missile submarines of the French Navy is the active class of four boats that entered service in 1997, 1999, 2004, and 2010. These four supersede the older Redoutable-class, and they provide the ocean-based component (the Force Océanique Stratégique in French) of the French Force de Frappe - its nuclear deterrent strike force.

The first three boats are all armed with the French-produced and armed M45 intermediate-range missile, and the fourth vessel Terrible, has tested and is equipped with the more advanced M51 missile. Each of the first three boats are to be retrofitted to the M51 missile standard, starting with Vigilant in Winter 2010, then Triomphant and lasting with Téméraire in 2018.

SNLE-NG

In French, Triomphant class submarine called Sous-Marin Nucléaire Lanceur d'Engins de Nouvelle Génération ("SNLE-NG, literally "Device-launching nuclear-powered submarine of the new generation"). They have replaced all of the Redoutable-class boats, with the last of those six boats being decommissioned in 2008. These submarines carry 16 Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile launching tubes apiece.

This class reportedly produces approximately 1/1000 of the detectable noise of the Redoutable-class boats (submarines), and they are ten times more sensitive in detecting other submarines. Initially armed with the 45 missile, they are designed to carry the new M51 missile, which entered active service in 2010. As of October 2010, an M51 has been test-fired from one of these submarines across the Atlantic Ocean from near France to the west, and is equipped on the Terrible.

These boats were all constructed by the DCNS, and they carry an armament of 16 M45 SLBM or M51 SLBM missiles manufactured by the Aerospatiale company (now EADS Astrium Space Transportation.), plus conventional torpedoes and Exocet anti-ship missiles.

List of submarines

The French Navy's goal is to operate a force of four ballistic missile submarines (comparable with the Royal Navy's Vanguard-class submarines, of which two of the French boats are expected to be on patrol at any given time.

• Triomphant : Construction began on 9 June 1989; she was launched on 26 March 1994, and entered active service on 21 March 1997.
• Téméraire : Construction began on 18 December 1993; she was launched on 21 January 1998, and entered active service on 23 December 1999.
• Vigilant : Construction began in 1997; she was launched on 19 September 2003, and entered active service on 26 November 2004.
• Terrible : Construction began on 24 October 2000; she was launched on 21 March 2008, and entered active service on 20 September 2010.

Triomphant Class Submarine overview
Name:	Triomphant
Builders:	DCNS
Operators:	French Navy
Preceded by:	Redoutable
Building:	0
Planned:	4
Completed:	4
Active:	4
Laid up:	0
Lost:	0
Retired:	0
General characteristics
Type:	ballistic missile submarine
Displacement:	12,640 tonne (surfaced) 14,335 tonne (submerged)
Length:	138 m
Beam:	12.50 m
Draught:	10.60 m
Propulsion:	K15 pressurised water reactor (150 MW), turboreductor system, Pump-jet two diesel-powered generators SEMT Pielstick 8PA4V200 SM (700 kW) auxiliaries. 30,500 kW
Speed:	over 25 knots (46 km/h)
Range:	Essentially unlimited distance; 20 years
Test depth:	Over 400 metres
Complement:	15 officers 96 sailors
Sensors and processing systems:	Sonar DMUX 80 Sonar DUUX 5 Sonar DSUV 61B Very Low Frequency Racal Decca radar (navigation) SCC : SET (Système d'exploitation Tactique) : tactical operational system
Electronic warfare and decoys:	ARUR 13
Armament:	Nuclear : 16 M45 SLBM or M51 SLBM missiles with TN 75 warheads four 533 mm (21-inch) torpedo tubes for F17 torpedoes and Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles, launchable while submerged
Notes:	boats in the class include: Triomphant (S 616), Téméraire (S 617) , Vigilant (S 618), Terrible (S 619)

Vanguard Class Submarine, Royal Navy Ballistic missile submarine

The Vanguard class submarine are the Royal Navy's current nuclear ballistic missile submarines (Ship Submersible Ballistic Nuclear or SSBN), each armed with up to 16 Trident II Submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). The class was introduced in 1994 as part of the UK government's Trident nuclear weapons programme.

The class includes four boats: Vanguard, Victorious, Vigilant, and Vengeance, all built at Barrow-in-Furness by Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering Ltd between 1986 and 1999.

All four boats are based at HM Naval Base Clyde (HMS Neptune), 40 km (25 miles) west of Glasgow, Scotland. Since the decommissioning of all WE.177 free-fall nuclear bombs in 1998, and the removal of all nuclear weapons from the British Army, the Royal Air Force, and all surface ships of the Royal Navy, the Vanguard submarines' Trident SLBM system is the sole holder of the United Kingdom's.

Vanguards class submarine Design

The Vanguard class submarine were designed from the outset as an unlimited-range nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine, unlike the previous Resolution class which was adapted from the then existing Valiant class and the American Lafayette class of nuclear powered fleet ballistic missile submarines (SSBN in US terms). At 149.9 metres (492 ft) long and 15,980 tonnes (15,730 long tons) submerged displacement the Vanguards are roughly twice the size of the Resolutions, and are the third largest submarines ever built, by displacement when surfaced, after the Soviet Typhoon and American Ohio classes. The great increase in size is largely related to the much larger size of the Trident D-5 missile as compared to Polaris.

The Vanguard class submarine were designed and built at Barrow-in-Furness by Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering Limited (VSEL), now BAE Systems Submarine Solutions. The Devonshire Dock Hall was built specifically to build these submarines. The missile compartment is based on the system used on the Ohio class, though only 16 missiles are carried rather than the 24 of the Ohio.

In addition to the missile tubes the Vanguard class is fitted with four 21-inch (53 cm) torpedo tubes and carries the Spearfish heavyweight torpedo, allowing it to engage submerged or surface targets at ranges up to 65 kilometres (40 mi; 35 nmi). Two SSE Mark 10 launchers are also fitted to allow the boats to deploy Type 2066 and Type 2071 decoys, and a UAP Mark 3 electronic support measures (ESM) intercept system is fitted.

HMS Vanguard, Victorious, Vigilant and Vengeance were commissioned in 1993, 1995, 1996 and 2000 respectively.

Sensors

Vanguard class submarine carries the Thales Underwater Systems Type 2054 composite sonar. The Type 2054 is a multi-mode, multi-frequency system, which incorporates the 2046, 2043 and 2082 sonars. The fleet is in the process of having their sonars refitted to include open architecture processing using commercial off the shelf technology.

A Type 2043 hull-mounted active/passive search sonar is also carried, as is a Type 2082 passive intercept and ranging sonar. Finally a Type 2046 towed array is carried. This operates at very low frequency, giving a passive search capability.

Two periscopes are carried, a CK51 search model and a CH91 attack model. Both have a TV camera and thermal imaging camera as well as conventional optics.

A Type 1007 I-band navigation radar is also carried.

Command system

A specialised Submarine Command System (SMCS) was originally developed for the Vanguard boats and was later used on other Royal Navy submarines.

Propulsion

A new pressurised water reactor, the PWR 2, was designed for the Vanguard class. This has double the service life of previous models, and it is estimated that a Vanguard class submarine could circumnavigate the world 40 times without refuelling. This should allow the class to carry out their entire service life without the need for expensive refuelling. The reactor drives two GEC turbines linked to a single shaft pump jet propulsor. This propulsion system gives the Vanguards a maximum submerged speed of 25 knots (46 km/h; 29 mph). Auxiliary power requirements are provided by a pair of 6MW Steam-turbine generators supplied by WH Allen, (later known as NEI Allen, Allen Power & Rolls-Royce) with two Paxman diesel alternators for provision of backup power supply.

History

The Trident II D-5 achieved an initial operational capability with the U.S. Navy in March 1990. Following launch and commissioning the vessels deployed on Demonstration and Shakedown Operations (DASOs). The major part of this was the test firing of Trident missiles at the United States' SLBM Launch Area, Eastern Test Range, Cape Canaveral, off the coast of Florida (see table below).

Table 1 Vanguard class—significant dates

Name	Launched	Commissioned	Test launch 1	Test launch 2	Maiden patrol
HMS Vanguard (S28)	March 4, 1992	August 14 1993	May 26, 1994	June 20, 1994	December 1994
HMS Victorious (S29)	September 29 1993	January, 7 1995	July 24, 1995	August 22, 1995	December 1995
HMS Vigilant (S30)	October 14, 1995	November 2, 1996	October 10, 1997	October 10, 1997	June 1998
HMS Vengeance (S31)	September 19, 1998	November, 27 1999	September 21, 2000	N/A	February 2001

Replacement

A decision on the replacement of Trident was made on the 4 December, 2006. Then-Prime Minister Tony Blair told MPs it would be "unwise and dangerous" for the UK to give up its nuclear weapons. He outlined plans to spend up to £20 billion on a new generation of submarines for Trident missiles. He said submarine numbers may be cut from four to three, while the number of nuclear warheads would be cut by 20 percent to 160. Blair said although the Cold War had ended, the UK needed nuclear weapons, as no-one could be sure another nuclear threat would not emerge in the future.

The 2006 white paper stated that the option of reducing the Trident carrying submarine fleet from four to three submarines, as part of plans to cut costs and to promote nuclear disarmament, would be considered. On 23 September, 2009, Prime Minister Gordon Brown confirmed that this reduction to three submarines was still under consideration.

Vanguard Class Sumarine overview
Builders:	Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering Ltd, Barrow-in-Furness
Operators:	Royal Navy
Preceded by:	Resolution class
Succeeded by:	N/A
In service:	1993 -
Completed:	4
Active:	Vanguard Victorious Vigilant Vengeance
General characteristics
Displacement:	Dived: 15,680 long tons (17,560 short tons)
Length:	149.9 m (491 ft 10 in)
Beam:	12.8 m (42 ft 0 in)
Draught:	12 m (39 ft 4 in)
Propulsion:	1 × Rolls-Royce PWR2 nuclear reactor 2 × GEC turbines 1 × shaft pump jet 27,500 hp (20.5 MW) 2 × auxiliary retractable propulsion motors 2 × W H Allen turbo generators 6 MW 2 × Paxman diesel alternators 2 × 2,700 hp (4 MW)
Speed:	Dived: 25 knots (46 km/h; 29 mph)
Range:	Essentially unlimited distance; 20 years
Complement:	14 officers 121 enlisted
Sensors and processing systems:	BAE Systems SMCS Thales Underwater Systems Type 2054 composite sonar suite comprising: Type 2046 towed array sonar Type 2043 hull-mounted active and passive search sonar Type 2082 passive intercept and ranging sonar 1 × Kelvin Hughes Type 1007 I band navigation radar 1 × Pilkington Optronics CK51 search periscope 1 × Pilkington Optronics CH91 attack periscope
Armament:	4 × 21 in (533 mm) torpedo tubes for Spearfish torpedoes 16 × ballistic missile tubes for 16 x Lockheed Trident D5 SLBMs carrying up to 128 warheads

Typhoon Class Submarine, Russian ballistic missile submarine

The Project 941 or Akula, Russian "Акула" ("Shark") class submarine (NATO name: Typhoon) is a type of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine deployed by the Soviet Navy in the 1980s. With a maximum displacement of 33,800 tons, the Typhoons are the largest class of submarine ever built, large enough to accommodate decent living facilities for the crew when submerged for months on end. The source of the NATO reporting name remains unclear, although it is often claimed to be related to the use of the word "Typhoon" ("Тайфун") by Leonid Brezhnev in a 1974 speech while describing a new type of nuclear ballistic missile submarine. Soviet doctrine for these vessels was to have them launch SLBMs while submerged under the arctic ice, avoiding the traversal of the GIUK gap to remain safe from the enemy attack submarines and anti-submarine forces. Technically Typhoons were also able to successfully deploy their long-range nuclear missiles while moored at their docks.

Typhoon submarines are among the quietest Russian sea vessels in operation, being quieter and yet more maneuverable than their predecessors. Besides their missile armament, the Typhoon class features six torpedo tubes; four are designed to handle RPK-2 (SS-N-15) missiles or Type 53 torpedoes, and the other two are designed to launch RPK-7 (SS-N-16) missiles, Type 65 torpedoes, or mines. A Typhoon class submarine can stay submerged for periods up to 180 days in normal conditions, and potentially more if deemed necessary (e.g., in the case of a nuclear war). Their primary weapons system is composed of 20 R-39 (NATO: SS-N-20) ballistic missiles (SLBM) with a maximum of 10 MIRV nuclear warheads each.

Typhoon class submarines feature multiple pressure hulls that simplify internal design while making the vessel much wider than a normal submarine. In the main body of the sub, two Delta class pressure hulls lie parallel with a third, smaller pressure hull above them (which protrudes just below the sail), and two other pressure hulls for torpedoes and steering gear. This also greatly increases their survivability - even if one pressure hull is breached, the crew members in the other are safe and there is less potential for flooding.

Variants

Typhoon-based cargo vessel

The Submarine Cargo Vessel is a proposed idea by the Rubin Design Bureau where a Typhoon has its missile launchers removed and replaced with cargo holds. The projected cargo capacity of this configuration is 15,000 tonnes (15,000 long tons).

Typhoon class submarine Units

#	Laid down	Launched	Commissioned	Status
TK-208 Dmitriy Donskoy	June 30, 1976	September 27, 1980	December 29, 1981	In service. Upgraded to project 941UM for use of Bulava missiles
TK-202	April 22, 1978	September 23, 1982	December 28, 1983	Withdrawn from active service in June 1999, scrapped 2003-2005
TK-12,Simbirsk	April 19, 1980	December 17, 1983	December 26, 1984	Withdrawn from active service in 1996, scrapped 2006-2008
TK-13	February 23, 1982	April 30, 1985	December 26, 1985	Withdrawn from active service in 1997, scrapped 2007-2009
TK-17 Arkhangelsk	August 9, 1983	December 12, 1986	December 15, 1987	In reserve from 2006, main armament inactive.
TK-20 Severstal	August 27, 1985	April 11, 1988	December 19, 1989	In reserve from 2004, main armament inactive.
TK-210	1986	1990 (scrapped on the ways)

834 TK 208 Dmitriy Donskoy

Typhoon-#1

• 9 February 1982: Entered 18th division (Zapadnaya Litsa), NOR.
• December 1982: Transferred from Severodvinsk to Zapadnaya Litsa.
• 1983-1984: Tests of D-19 missile complex. Commanders: A.V.Olkhovikov (1980–1984).
• 3 December 1986: Entered Navy Board of the Winners of the Socialist Competition.
• 18 January 1987: Entered MoD Board of Glory.
• 20 September 1989–1991: Repairs and refit at Sevmash to Project 941U. 1991 refit cancelled.
• 1996: Returned to 941U refit.
• 2002: Named Dmitriy Donskoy.
• 26 June 2002: End of refit.
• 30 June 2002: Start of testing.
• 26 July 2002: Entered sea trials, Re-entered fleet, without missile system.
• December 2003: Sea trials; refitted to carry a new Bulava missile system. New missile system expected to be operational by 2005.
• 9 October 2005: Successfully launched SS-NX-30 Bulava SLBM from surface.
• 21 December 2005: Successfully launched SS-NX-30 Bulava SLBM from submerged position on move.
• 7 September 2006: Test launch of the Bulava missile failed after several minutes in flight due to the problems in the flight control system. The missile fell into the sea about a minute after the launch. The sub was not affected and was returning to Severodvinsk base submerged. Later reports blamed the engine of the first stage for the failure.
• 25 October 2006: Test launch of the Bulava-M missile in the White Sea failed some 200 seconds after liftoff due to the apparent failure of the flight control system.
• 28 August 2008: Undergone successful testing at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk, Arkhangelsk Oblast. More than 170 men are currently working with the Dmitriy Donskoy, hundred of them employees at the Sevmash plant and 70 from other involved companies.

830 TK 17 Arkhangelsk

Typhoon-#5

• 19 February 1988: Entered 18th division (Zapadnaya Litsa) NOR.
• 8 January–9 November 2002: Refit at Sevmash.
• In July 2002, crew petitioned Main Navy Headquarters to adopt the name Arkhangel'sk (renamed on 18 November 2002).
• Commander: 2002-2003 V.Volkov.
• 17 February 2004: Took part in military exercises with President Vladimir Putin aboard.
• Could be modified to carry cruise missiles or to lay mines, or could be used in special operations.

TK 20 Severstal

Typhoon-#6

• 28 February 1990: Entered 18th division (Zapadnaya Litsa), NOR.
• 25 August 1996: Successfully launched SLBM
• November 1996: Successfully launched SLBM from North Pole.
• 24 July 1999: Took part in parade on Navy Day in Severomorsk, NOR.
• November–December 1999 - distant cruise.
• 2001: named to Severstal.
• June 2001–December 2002: Repairs at Sevmash.
• Commander: A.Bogachev (2001).

Class overview
Name:	Akula (Акула) (NATO: Typhoon)
Builders:	Rubin Design Bureau
Operators:	Soviet Navy Russian Navy
Preceded by:	Delta class submarine
Succeeded by:	Borei class submarine
In commission:	December 12, 1981
Completed:	6
Active:	1
Scrapped:	3
Preserved:	2
General characteristics
Type:	Ballistic missile submarine
Displacement:	23,200–24,500 t (22,830–24,110 long tons) surfaced 33,800–48,000 t (33,270–47,240 long tons) submerged
Length:	175 m (574 ft 2 in)
Beam:	23 m (75 ft 6 in)
Draught:	12 m (39 ft 4 in)
Propulsion:	2 × OK-650 pressurized-water nuclear reactors, 190 MW (254,800 hp) each 2 × VV-type steam turbines, 37 MW (49,600 hp) each 2 shafts 7 bladed shrouded screws
Speed:	22.22 knots (41.15 km/h; 25.57 mph) surfaced 27 knots (50 km/h; 31 mph) submerged
Endurance:	180 days submerged
Test depth:	400 m (1,300 ft)
Complement:	163
Armament:	1 × 9K38 Igla SAM 2 × 650 mm (26 in) torpedo tubes • RPK-7 Vodopad AShMs • Type 65K torpedoes 4 × 533 mm (21 in) torpedo tubes • RPK-2 Viyuga cruise missiles • Type 53 torpedoes[1] D-19 launch system • 20 × RSM-52 SLBMs
Notes:	Ships in class include: TK-208 TK-202 TK-12 TK-13 TK-17 TK-20 TK-210

Virginia Class Submarine, US Navy attack submarine

The Virginia class subamrine (or SSN-774 class) of attack submarines are U.S. submarines designed for a broad spectrum of open-ocean and littoral missions. They were designed as a less expensive alternative to the Cold War-era designed Seawolf class attack submarines, and they are slated to replace the aging Los Angeles class submarines, seventeen of which (from a total of 62) have already been decommissioned.

Innovations of Virginia Class Submarine

The Virginia-class incorporates several innovations not previously seen in other submarine classes.

Photonics Masts

Instead of a traditional periscope, the class utilizes a pair of telescoping photonics masts located outside the pressure hull. Each mast contains high-resolution cameras, along with light-intensification and infrared sensors, an infrared laser rangefinder, and an integrated Electronic Support Measures (ESM) array. Signals from the masts' sensors are transmitted through fiber optic data lines through signal processors to the control center. Visual feeds from the masts are displayed on LCD interfaces in the command center.

Propulsion

The class also makes use of pump-jet propulsors, which significantly reduces the risks of cavitation, allowing for quieter and faster operations.

Sonar

The Virginia class submarines are equipped with a bow-mounted spherical active/passive sonar array, a wide aperture lightweight fiber optic sonar array (three flat panels mounted low along either side of the hull), as well as two high frequency active sonars mounted in the sail and keel (under the bow). The submarines are also equipped with a low frequency towed sonar array and a high frequency towed sonar array.

USS California will be the first Virginia with the advanced electromagnetic signature reduction system built in, but this will be retrofitted into the other submarines of the class.

Specifications of Virginia class submarine

• Builders: GD Electric Boat and Northrop Grumman Newport News
• Length: 377 ft (114.91 m)
• Beam: 34 ft (10.36 m)
• Displacement: 7,800 long tons (7,900 t)
• Payload: 40 weapons, special operations forces, unmanned undersea vehicles, Advanced SEAL Delivery System (ASDS)
• Propulsion: The S9G nuclear reactor
• Maximum diving depth: greater than 800 ft (244 m)
• Speed: 25+ knots
• Planned cost: about US$1.65 billion each (based on FY95 dollars, 30-ship class and two ship/year build-rate, which has not yet been authorized)
• Actual cost: about $1.8 billion each (as of 2009)
• Crew: 120 enlisted and 14 officers
• Armament: 12 VLS & four torpedo tubes, capable of launching Mark 48 torpedoes, Harpoon missiles, UGM-109 Tactical Tomahawks, and the new advanced mobile mine when it comes available.

Virginia Class Submarine overview
Name:	Virginia
Builders:	General Dynamics Electric Boat Northrop Grumman Newport News
Operators:	United States Navy
Preceded by:	Seawolf class attack submarine Los Angeles class attack submarine
Cost:	$1.8 billion per unit 2009
Built:	2000 – present
In commission:	2004 – present
Building:	3
Planned:	30
Completed:	7
Active:	7
General characteristics
Type:	Attack submarine
Displacement:	7,900 metric tons (7,800 long tons)
Length:	377 feet (115 m)
Beam:	34 feet (10 m)
Propulsion:	S9G reactor
Speed:	25+ knots (45+ km/h)
Range:	unlimited except by food supplies
Test depth:	800+ ft (250+ m)
Complement:	134
Armament:	12 × VLS (BGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missile) & 4 × 533mm torpedo tubes (Mk-48 torpedo)
Notes:	Ships in class include: Virginia, Texas, Hawaii, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Missouri, California, Mississippi, Minnesota, North Dakota, John Warner