Russia's Submarine Blunder: Kazan's Sonar Signature Compromised Near Cuba

 After the Russian Yasen-class submarine, Kazan, made an appearance in Cuba, initial excitement about its proximity to the US turned into regret among Russian experts. According to the Russian site Top War, this move is seen as a significant blunder, with Americans already mocking Russia. The site criticizes the decision, noting that sending the submarine into the American anti-submarine zone compromised its stealth advantage.

In Cuba, crowds gathered to see the Kazan up close, but this exposure meant the US and NATO could now detect the submarine more easily. The Atlantic is heavily monitored by American and NATO forces, using advanced detection systems in key areas like the Barents and Norwegian Seas, the Faroe-Icelandic Gap, and the Davis Strait. These systems, combined with sophisticated patrol aviation, make it nearly impossible for a Russian submarine to enter the Atlantic undetected.

Submarines are primarily detected through passive noise direction finding and active sonar methods. Passive systems pick up on low-frequency sounds, while active sonar involves sending out a signal that bounces off the submarine and returns to the receiver. Modern ships enhance detection capabilities with low-frequency emitters and towed sonar stations, making it hard for submarines to remain hidden.

However, detecting a submarine with another submarine is more complex, as Russian submarines have very low noise levels in stealth mode. Identifying an underwater target’s unique acoustic signature can help isolate it from background noise, crucial for long-distance detection.

Previously, the US lacked detailed acoustic data on the Kazan. But after its exposure near Cuba, advanced computer systems recorded its acoustic signature, allowing the US to identify and track it more efficiently. This shift in detection methods significantly disadvantages Russia in terms of submarine stealth capabilities.

The potential implications are severe. The US could launch a nuclear strike against Russia or China with minimal retaliation risk if they can neutralize Russian strategic submarines. This was demonstrated in June 2023, showing the importance of disabling Russia’s submarine fleet to prevent a retaliatory strike. Russian submarines often operate under the ice, complicating detection, but a detailed sonar signature would allow American submarines to locate and target them from a safe distance, even in challenging environments.

Norwegian Navy's Type 212CD AIP Submarines to Revolutionize Underwater Capabilities

 

Norway's new Type 212CD diesel-electric submarines (SSKs) will introduce air-independent propulsion (AIP) to the Royal Norwegian Navy (RNoN), significantly enhancing its underwater capabilities. This advancement is expected to be a game-changer, as stated by the commanding officer (CO) of one of Norway's current in-service boats.

Currently, the RNoN operates six Type 210 Ula-class SSKs, which are set to be replaced by up to six Type 212CD submarines, with the first delivery slated for 2029 and subsequent deliveries extending into the mid-2030s. These new submarines are being developed through a strategic collaboration with Germany, initiated in 2017, marking the beginning of a broader defense partnership formalized in 2023.

Originally, the RNoN planned to replace the Ula-class boats with four Type 212CDs. However, rising regional security concerns and underwater challenges led Norway’s Chief of Defence, General Eirik Kristoffersen, to advocate for six new submarines. In April 2024, the Norwegian government proposed to parliament the acquisition of at least five new submarines as part of a long-term defense strategy extending to 2036.

The Type 212CD submarines will bring crucial new capabilities to the RNoN, particularly through AIP technology. The CO of the Ula-class boat HNoMS Utvaer emphasized that AIP is a significant game-changer. Unlike the current Ulas, the Type 212CD’s fuel-cell AIP will reduce the need for ‘snorting’ at periscope depth, a noisy and visible process that increases vulnerability to various threats.

This capability is demonstrated by the Royal Swedish Navy’s Gotland-class SSKs, which utilize a Stirling fuel-cell AIP system, allowing them to remain submerged without snorting for several weeks. The introduction of AIP aligns with the RNoN's focus on enhancing stealth and operational capability in its challenging regional waters.

In addition to AIP, the Type 212CDs will allow the RNoN to explore new capabilities such as strike capabilities with the Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile (NSM). The Ula-class boats, although not equipped with strike capabilities, remain formidable with up to 14 weapons and advanced torpedoes like the Atlas Elektronik DM2A3 Sea Hake.

Despite their age, the Ula-class submarines maintain high operational effectiveness through regular upgrades and maintenance. This includes new sonars, command and information control consoles, and advanced navigation equipment. The CO of Utvaer praised the robust maintenance process, which ensures high material readiness and prolongs the operational life of the submarines.

The continuous upgrade and maintenance efforts reflect the RNoN's commitment to maintaining a capable and ready submarine fleet, even as they age. This dedication ensures that the Ula-class boats remain potent platforms until the new Type 212CD submarines are fully integrated into the fleet.