Russia is gearing up to unveil its latest naval development, the Amur 950 attack submarine, at the upcoming Army-2024 military-technical forum. The Amur 950, designed for export and touted as a "naval floating battery," will be publicly presented for the first time. It boasts ten vertical launch systems (VLS) capable of firing BrahMos missiles, a significant enhancement to its offensive capabilities.
The Amur 950 is an export version of the Lada-class submarine, part of the Amur-class series known for its improved stealth, combat systems, and optional air-independent propulsion (AIP). The submarine is designed for preemptive strikes against enemy vessels and coastal infrastructure. It features low noise levels, advanced hydroacoustic systems for reconnaissance, and a 30-day autonomous operation range.
With a displacement of 1,000 tons, the Amur 950 measures 58.8 meters in length, 5.65 meters in beam, and 6.4 meters in height. It has a crew of 19 and an armament including four 533 mm torpedo tubes with a capacity of 16 units for torpedoes, missiles, or mines.
The Amur 950 leverages technologies from the Amur 1650 project and incorporates a single-hull architecture, an integrated automated combat control system, and an electric propulsion system. These features aim to reduce noise and enhance energy efficiency.
The integration of BrahMos missiles, developed jointly by India and Russia, further strengthens the Amur 950's appeal. This submarine-launched variant significantly boosts the submarine's offensive potential, making it attractive to countries looking to bolster their naval power.
Interestingly, Russia had previously offered the larger Amur-1650 submarine to India for its Project-75I program. However, the Indian Navy declined due to the lack of an AIP system, crucial for prolonged underwater operations. The Amur 950, while smaller, addresses this concern by offering a potent mix of stealth, firepower, and adaptability.
The unveiling of the Amur 950 at Army-2024 marks a significant step in Russia's naval export strategy. With its advanced design, cutting-edge technology, and the integration of BrahMos missiles, the Amur 950 is poised to make waves in the global submarine market.
