Project 636 Russian Submarine

Launched in the spring of 1997, the Type 636 Kilo-Class Submarine project has unleashed one of the quietest conventional submarines into the waters of the world. Designed by the Rubin Central Maritime Design Bureau in St. Petersburg, the 636 diesel sub is based on the well known Project 877EKM sub, though the newer design features considerable improvements. Project 636 subs have an endurance of 45 days.

Radical Improvements

Improvements found on the Type 636 Diesel Sub include: Increased Propulsion (based on more powerful diesel engines), enhanced fire control, increased underwater speed, reduced noise level, and a snorkeling range of up to 7,500 nautical miles

The Project 636 sub’s reduced noise level originates in an extended hull length (2 frame spacings over the 877EKM, i.e. 2 x 600 millimeters.) This extension allows for an increase in the size of the diesel generators, while providing space for shock-absorbing support mounts to place them on, while allowing for reduction of the main propulsion shaft speed by a factor of 2.

Each of these benefits enhances the 636’s mission: to safeguard coastal installations, naval bases and sea lanes, and for use in reconnaissance and patrol mission functions while evading detection.

Armaments

Should it be necessary to destroy enemy submarines, surface warships and other vessels encountered during battle or in other situations, the Type 636 Diesel Submarine is equipped with six 533 millimeter forward torpedo tubes in the nose, with rack storage capabilities of an additional twelve torpedoes. The tubes are capable of deploying mines as well, and can carry two mines in each of the six tubes and an additional twelve on racks.

Because of its quieter profile, the Type 636 Submarine allows for earlier preemptive detection of enemy surface ships at greater distances. Project 636 subs are equipped with 3M-54E Club-S anti-ship cruise missiles with a range of up to 220 kilometers. This formidable launch range offers increased probability of striking rapidly-moving targets, as in the case of sub-to-ship engagements. The Type 636 submarines’ long-range allows for enhanced combat stability under counterattack, due to the absence of the need to penetrate enemy naval and airborne defense lines, or to pass through mine hazard zones.

Built For Comfort