Typhoon-class

Actually known as the Akula (Shark) in Russia, the original project code name was Taufun (Typhoon). The six units of this class are the largest production submarines in history. They are intended to operate under the Arctic ice pack, break through, and then launch their missiles. These are truly huge boats, incorporating a number of unusual crew comforts (such as a sauna and pool!). The forward position of the launch tubes for the missiles is unique in the world. In addition, these are extremely quiet boats, using every technology known to the Russians to make them difficult to find. Unfortunately, their large size makes them difficult to maneuver. In fact, each Typhoon is equipped with a pair of massive bulge keels, apparently to reduce rolling.

A more significant problem may be the questionable reliability of the SS-N-20/RSM-52 missiles. Reportedly in 1991, one failed to ignite properly, causing the missile to fall back on the boat, severely damaging it. In spite of this, the six Typhoons remain the most capable SSBNs in the Russian arsenal.

Structural/Powerplant

The Typhoon/Project 941-class incorporates a unique dual side-by-side pressure hull arrangement. An additional pair of smaller pressure hulls provide space for the torpedo facilities and steering controls. It is powered by a pair of 360 MW pressurized water reactors, each driving it's own seven-bladed propeller. Each pressure hull has its own crew rescue module, and is essentually autonomous from the rest of the boat.

Weapons

Six 21"/533 mm torpedo tubes firing torpedoes and SS-N-15 Starfish/P-82 ASW missiles, and 20 vertical launch tubes for SS-N-20 STURGEON/RSM-52 nuclear armed missiles. The missiles have a range of up to 4,480 nm./7,500 km. and are armed with up to 10 255 KT thermonuclear warheads.

Countermeasures

Rim Hat radio/radar intercept reliever, Park Lamp radio direction finding reliever and decoy/countermeasures launchers.

Sensors

Shark Gill low frequency sonar, Snoop Pair surface search radar, Cod Eye radiometric sextent and two periscopes.