Russia's Krylov Light Aircraft Carrier Project Features Semi-Catamaran Hull Design.

The underwater part of the light aircraft carrier features a semi-catamaran hull which is the major distinction of the project designed by the Krylov Scientific Center, a representative of the organization told TASS.

Krylov's light aircraft carrier semi catamaran hull can be seen in the glass reflection. The design was unveiled during Army 2018 exhibition.

"The project is distinguished by the underwater part of a semi-catamaran form. Catamaran actually means two hulls united by a platform. It has a wide deck which is important for an aircraft carrier. The design adds flight deck space on which the number of aircraft depends. As a result, a medium-displacement ship can carry a full-fledged air wing," he said.

Such a design has never been used for aircraft carriers. "The zest of the carrier is below the waterline," the representative said.

Detailed view of Krylov's light aircraft carrier stern area

A model of the future aircraft carrier was presented for the first time at Army-2018 forum. The warship is designed to maintain combat sustainability of navy forces and groups in blue and green waters by providing air and missile defense and destroying air, surface, underwater and coastal targets.

Standard displacement is 37000 tons, the normal one is 40500 tons, and full displacement is 44000 tons. The length is 304 meters (260 by construction waterline), the width is 78 meters (38) and the draft is 8.5 meters. Full speed is 28 knots, economical is 16 knots. Cruising range at 16 knots is 8000 miles, expandable endurance is 60 days. Aircraft engagement seaworthiness is force seven. The main power plant is a two-shaft gas turbine with a partial electric propulsion and a capacity of 81000 KW or 110000 HP. The electric system comprises three generators with a total capacity of 32MW (6.3 KV/50Hz).

Detailed view of Krylov's light aircraft carrier stern area

The armaments comprise four air defense Pantsir-ME missile guns with target detection stations. Antitorpedo defense is ensured by four 324mm launchers. The ship can carry four rocket-assisted bomb launchers, active and passive electronic warfare means.

On-deck air wing comprises 46 flying craft, including 12-14 Su-33, 12-14 MiG-39K/KUB, four airborne early warning aircraft, 12-14 Ka-27 helicopters. The stocks of air weapons are up to 600 tons and aircraft kerosene - 2000 tons.

© Copyright 2018 TASS. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.