Wheezer posted:

The requested data on the Akula

Eyes Only Naval Intelligence
Akula Class Submarine, Improved

The Russian Akulas usually leave submarine pens only to dive and resurface to dock again. They are capable of extended parols, months at a time. We have several patrol plane images, but we've caught something new.

One week ago satellites spotted an Akula hastily preparing to head out off of Polyamyy. It wasn't a routine transfer out of Severomorsk as she was arming out in the open. Analysts went over what we have and believe we are looking at a new type of submarine. The following is what we have on the new class.

http://i.imgur.com/WWpFL.jpg

She has been designated Improved Akula. The main improvements are related to further quieting and arming the submarine. The Project 971 Akula had four 533mm torpedo tubes and our Improved Akula has a second set of four 650mm tubes. Her hull is also covered in a new quieting tile compared to the original. The Russians were working on high-tech acoustic tiling to cover their boats with, so expect the Improved Akula to be on level or more silent than our Improved Los Angeless class.

Based on the original Akula we know the Improved Akula to be very fast. Any speed upgrades are related to the surface material so expect performance in line with the previous model.

Best numbers available:

Estimated maximum depth: 700 m
Monitored maximum dive: 480 m (original Akula)
Maximum speed surfaced: 12 kts
Maximum speed submerged: 38 kts

The Russian Shval torpedo is launched from the 533mm tube. The 650mm tubes are likely for conventional high payload torpedoes meant for our carriers.

The Improved Akula is the very best in the Russian fleet and is equipped with their best sonar equipment. The sensor complement of the Akula includes a towed array sonar. Due to the construction of the boom, we believe she can safely tow her array at maximum speed and during combat maneuvers.