Russia to equip all Yasen M class submarines with Zircon hypersonic missiles.

According to information published by Russian media on August 14, 2023, the CEO of USC has revealed in an interview that the Yasen M-class submarines (Project 885(M)) will be standardly armed with Zircon hypersonic missiles.
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Launching ceremony of the Russian Navy's Yasen M class submarine Novosibirsk. (Picture source: Oleg Kuleshov)

Constructed with a semi-double hull design, the Yasen class features a light hull in the bow and around the missile silos. This design is complemented by the use of low-magnetic steel for the hull, which reduces its magnetic signature. Additionally, a rubber coating envelopes the hull, providing both noise reduction and minimized sonar reflection.

In terms of hydroacoustic capabilities, the base "Project 885" is equipped with the "Irtysh-Amfora" system, featuring a large spherical antenna. In contrast, the Yasen-M variant utilizes the "Ajax" hydroacoustic complex, with antennas distributed across the submarine's hull.

Due to the placement of the hydroacoustic system in the bow, the torpedo tubes in the Yasen class were repositioned, a significant departure from traditional submarine design.

Armament-wise, the Yasen class features the 3P-14V Universal Ship Firing System, allowing for vertical missile launches. These silos are positioned along the sides of the submarine's hull. As a result of these design adaptations, the Yasen class spans a length of 139 meters, while the Yasen-M variant is 130 meters long.

Safety features onboard include a single rescue chamber capable of housing the entire crew. The submarines also benefit from a new generation nuclear reactor.

This reactor is designed with the coolant pipes of the primary circuit housed within its casing, reducing the risk of radiation exposure. Furthermore, this reactor can operate for approximately 25-30 years without needing refueling.