Aries-class submarine: Difference between revisions
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{|{{Infobox ship begin|infobox caption=''Aries''-class submarine}} | {|{{Infobox ship begin|infobox caption=''Aries''-class submarine}} | ||
{{Infobox ship image | {{Infobox ship image | ||
|Ship image= | |Ship image= Hmsambush.jpg|300px | ||
|Ship caption=GCNS ''Virgo'' during sea trials (2012) | |Ship caption=GCNS ''Virgo'' during sea trials (2012) | ||
}} | }} | ||
| Line 33: | Line 33: | ||
|Ship type= {{wpl|Nuclear_marine_propulsion|Nuclear}} attack submarine | |Ship type= {{wpl|Nuclear_marine_propulsion|Nuclear}} attack submarine | ||
|Ship tonnage= | |Ship tonnage= | ||
|Ship displacement= *''Aries'' class: | |Ship displacement= *''Aries'' class: 10,364 tonnes (submerged) | ||
*''Ophuichus'' class: | *''Ophuichus'' class: 12,448 tonnes (submerged) | ||
|Ship tons burthen= | |Ship tons burthen= | ||
|Ship length= *''Aries'' class: 140.6 m (461 ft 3 inches) | |Ship length= *''Aries'' class: 140.6 m (461 ft 3 inches) | ||
*''Ophuichus'' class: 145.1 m (476 ft 1 inches) | *''Ophuichus'' class: 145.1 m (476 ft 1 inches) | ||
|Ship beam= 10 m (32 ft 10 inches) | |Ship beam= 10.0 m (32 ft 10 inches) | ||
|Ship height= | |Ship height= | ||
|Ship draft= 9.8 m (32 ft 2 inches) | |Ship draft= 9.8 m (32 ft 2 inches) | ||
|Ship depth= | |Ship depth= | ||
|Ship hold depth= | |Ship hold depth= | ||
|Ship decks= | |Ship decks= | ||
|Ship deck clearance= | |Ship deck clearance= | ||
|Ship ramps= | |Ship ramps= | ||
| Line 49: | Line 49: | ||
|Ship power= *1 x [[Fushan Atomics]] SS6 nuclear reactor producing 40,000 shp (30 MW) | |Ship power= *1 x [[Fushan Atomics]] SS6 nuclear reactor producing 40,000 shp (30 MW) | ||
*1 x auxiliary diesel motor producing 402 shp (300 kW) | *1 x auxiliary diesel motor producing 402 shp (300 kW) | ||
|Ship propulsion= | |Ship propulsion= 1 x shaft, pump-jet propulsor | ||
|Ship sail plan= | |Ship sail plan= | ||
|Ship speed= | |Ship speed= Classified, over 25 knots (46 km/h) submerged | ||
|Ship range= Unlimited | |Ship range= Unlimited | ||
|Ship endurance= 90+ days | |Ship endurance= 90+ days | ||
|Ship test depth= | |Ship test depth= Classified, over 400 m (1312 ft) | ||
|Ship boats= | |Ship boats= | ||
|Ship capacity= | |Ship capacity= | ||
| Line 66: | Line 65: | ||
|Ship sensors= | |Ship sensors= | ||
|Ship EW= | |Ship EW= | ||
|Ship armament= | |Ship armament= *4 × 533 mm (21 inch) torpedo tubes with stowage for up to 23 weapons, including: | ||
** [[Tigershark (torpedo)|Tigershark]] heavyweight torpedoes | |||
** [[Spear (missile family)|US-660 Spear]] anti-ship missiles | |||
*** | ** [[Spear (missile family)|US-2500 Spear]] {{wpl|cruise missile|cruise missiles}} | ||
* | ** [[Spear (missile family)|SU-50 Spear]] {{wpl|anti-submarine warfare|anti-submarine}} {{wpl|missile|missiles}} | ||
*''or'' up to 46 {{wpl|Naval mine|naval mines}}, including: | |||
** [[Stonefish (mine)|Stonefish]] influence mines | |||
** [[Stingray (mine)|Stingray]] mobile mines | |||
** [[Coneshell (mine)|Coneshell]] homing mines | |||
*''Aries'' class: | |||
**6 × Variable Payload Tubes (VPT) for: | **6 × Variable Payload Tubes (VPT) for: | ||
*** 7 x SS-2500 Spear {{wpl|cruise missiles}} each, total 42 missiles | *** 7 x SS-2500 Spear {{wpl|cruise missiles}} each, total 42 missiles | ||
*''Ophuichus'' class: | *''Ophuichus'' class: | ||
** | **2 × Variable Payload Tubes (VPT) for: | ||
*** 7 x SS-2500 Spear {{wpl|cruise missiles}} each, total 14 missiles | *** 7 x SS-2500 Spear {{wpl|cruise missiles}} each, total 14 missiles | ||
|Ship armour= | |Ship armour= | ||
| Line 87: | Line 87: | ||
|} | |} | ||
The '''''Aries'' class''', also referred to | The '''''Aries'' class''', also referred to as the '''Zodiac class''' or '''SSN-20 class''', is a class of {{wpl|Nuclear_marine_propulsion|nuclear powered}} attack submarines (SSN) in service with the [[Grand Chilokveri Navy]]. | ||
==Development== | ==Development== | ||
| Line 96: | Line 96: | ||
===Power & propulsion=== | ===Power & propulsion=== | ||
''Aries''-class submarines are powered by a single [[Fushan Atomics]] SS6 pressurised water reactor (PWR), which produces up to 150 {{wpl|Watt#Megawatt|MW}} of thermal power and has a designed lifetime of 25 years without refuelling. As part of cost reduction measures involved in the design of the ''Aries'' | ''Aries''-class submarines are powered by a single [[Fushan Atomics]] SS6 pressurised water reactor (PWR), which produces up to 150 {{wpl|Watt#Megawatt|MW}} of thermal power and has a designed lifetime of 25 years without refuelling. As part of cost reduction measures involved in the design of the ''Aries'' class, the SS6 reactor's design was developed from and are a modified derivative of the SS5 PWRs used onboard the [[Leviathan-class submarine|''Leviathan'' class'']] ballistic missile submarines. Compared to the SS5, the SS6 has an increased energy density and is smaller in size & weight to allow it to be fitted to the smaller diameter hull of the ''Aries'' class without compromising the boats' {{wpl|hydrodynamics}}. The new, reduced plant components, including a new steam generator design, also feature improved corrosion resistance and maintenance, which are intended to reduce costs over the life cycle of the class. While the SS6 retains the {{wpl|natural circulation}} cooling capability of the SS5, it cannot be operated at power under this setting and is only intended to use it to maintain emergency cooling while shut down. | ||
The ''Aries'' | The ''Aries'' class' reactor drives a single shaft, delivering 30 MW or 40,000 {{wpl|Horsepower#Shaft_horsepower|shp}} of power. Similar to the preceding [[Máni-class submarine|''Máni'' class]], the ''Aries'' class uses {{wpl|pump-jet}} propulsors rather than a conventional bladed propeller. The use of a shrouded {{wpl|Propulsor|propulsor}} significantly reduces the risks of {{wpl|cavitation}}, and allows for quieter operation. | ||
The ''Aries'' | The ''Aries'' class are designed for a top speed of 30 {{wpl|Knot (unit)|knots}} (56 km/h) while submerged. However, it was reported in 2007 that the ''Aries'' struggled to achieve this design speed as a result of a mismatch between the reactor and the turbine. The [[Ministry of Defence (Chilokver)|Ministry of Defence]] confirmed in 2012 that the issue had been rectified after ''Gemini'' successfully demonstrated her top speed during trials. | ||
===Armament=== | ===Armament=== | ||
| Line 107: | Line 107: | ||
===Variants=== | ===Variants=== | ||
Unique among the rest of her class, ''Ophuichus'' was modified for special operations and classified intelligence missions by the insertion of a 2,084 tonne Multi-Mission Interface (MMI) hull block behind the {{wpl|Sail (submarine)|sail}} in place of the standard hull module installed with four Variable Payload Tubes (VPTs). While originally scheduled to be commissioned as normal sometime during 2015, in 2013 [[Yanmei Shipyard]] was awarded a | Unique among the rest of her class, ''Ophuichus'' was modified for special operations and classified intelligence missions by the insertion of a 2,084 tonne Multi-Mission Interface (MMI) hull block behind the {{wpl|Sail (submarine)|sail}} in place of the standard hull module installed with four Variable Payload Tubes (VPTs). While originally scheduled to be commissioned as normal sometime during 2015, in 2013 [[Yanmei Shipyard]] was awarded a ₡1.40 billion [[Chilokveri Credit|credit]] contract and 2 year extension for a large-scale, mid-construction modification of the ''Ophuichus'' to support "classified research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) efforts for notional naval special warfare missions, tactical undersea surveillance, and undersea warfare concepts" without unduly sacrificing the her warfighting capabilities. As a result of the modification, ''Ophuichus'' is approximately 5 metres longer and 128 tonnes heavier than other ''Aries-class'' submarines. The MMI hull insert is unique in being of a smaller diameter than the rest of the {{wpl|Submarine_hull#Pressure_hull|pressure hull}} i.e. the ''Ophuichus''' hull has horizontal 'hourglass' configuration that narrows the pressure hull down to a 'wasp waist'. As faired over to maintain a smooth {{wpl|Fluid_dynamics|hydrodynamic}} hull shape, significant external volume is available outside the pressure hull for storage and deployment of mission systems. The section is fitted with an ocean interface for divers and {{wpl|Remotely_operated_underwater_vehicle|remotely operated vehicles}} (ROVs). | ||
''Ophuichus'' is also fitted with additional maneuvering devices fitted at the fore and aft of the hull which allow her to maintain a stationary position in varying currents. According to intelligence experts, it is likely that these allow the MMI to be operated as an underwater splicing chamber for tapping {{wpl|Submarine_cable|undersea}} {{wpl|Optical_fiber_cable|fibre-optic cables}}. | ''Ophuichus'' is also fitted with additional maneuvering devices fitted at the fore and aft of the hull which allow her to maintain a stationary position in varying currents. According to intelligence experts, it is likely that these allow the MMI to be operated as an underwater splicing chamber for tapping {{wpl|Submarine_cable|undersea}} {{wpl|Optical_fiber_cable|fibre-optic cables}}. When questioned in 2016, a [[Grand Chilokveri Navy|GCN]] spokesman refused to either confirm or deny whether such missions would be performed by the ''Ophuichus'', saying: "That sort of information's going to be classified by nature." | ||
==Service history== | ==Service history== | ||
Latest revision as of 19:46, 24 April 2024
 | This article is incomplete because it is pending further input from participants, or it is a work-in-progress by one author. Please comment on this article's talk page to share your input, comments and questions. Note: To contribute to this article, you may need to seek help from the author(s) of this page. |
 GCNS Virgo during sea trials (2012)
| |
| Class overview | |
|---|---|
| Name: | Aries-class guided missile submarine |
| Builders: | Yanmei Shipyard Co. |
| Operators: |
 Grand Chilokveri Navy |
| Preceded by: | Máni class |
| Subclasses: | Ophuichus class |
| Cost: |
|
| Built: | 2000–2018 |
| In commission: | 2008–present |
| Planned: | 13 |
| Completed: | 13 |
| Active: | 13 |
| General characteristics | |
| Type: | Nuclear attack submarine |
| Displacement: |
|
| Length: |
|
| Beam: | 10.0 m (32 ft 10 inches) |
| Draft: | 9.8 m (32 ft 2 inches) |
| Installed power: |
|
| Propulsion: | 1 x shaft, pump-jet propulsor |
| Speed: | Classified, over 25 knots (46 km/h) submerged |
| Range: | Unlimited |
| Endurance: | 90+ days |
| Test depth: | Classified, over 400 m (1312 ft) |
| Complement: |
|
| Crew: |
|
| Armament: |
|
The Aries class, also referred to as the Zodiac class or SSN-20 class, is a class of nuclear powered attack submarines (SSN) in service with the Grand Chilokveri Navy.
Development
Design
General characteristics
Power & propulsion
Aries-class submarines are powered by a single Fushan Atomics SS6 pressurised water reactor (PWR), which produces up to 150 MW of thermal power and has a designed lifetime of 25 years without refuelling. As part of cost reduction measures involved in the design of the Aries class, the SS6 reactor's design was developed from and are a modified derivative of the SS5 PWRs used onboard the Leviathan class ballistic missile submarines. Compared to the SS5, the SS6 has an increased energy density and is smaller in size & weight to allow it to be fitted to the smaller diameter hull of the Aries class without compromising the boats' hydrodynamics. The new, reduced plant components, including a new steam generator design, also feature improved corrosion resistance and maintenance, which are intended to reduce costs over the life cycle of the class. While the SS6 retains the natural circulation cooling capability of the SS5, it cannot be operated at power under this setting and is only intended to use it to maintain emergency cooling while shut down.
The Aries class' reactor drives a single shaft, delivering 30 MW or 40,000 shp of power. Similar to the preceding Máni class, the Aries class uses pump-jet propulsors rather than a conventional bladed propeller. The use of a shrouded propulsor significantly reduces the risks of cavitation, and allows for quieter operation.
The Aries class are designed for a top speed of 30 knots (56 km/h) while submerged. However, it was reported in 2007 that the Aries struggled to achieve this design speed as a result of a mismatch between the reactor and the turbine. The Ministry of Defence confirmed in 2012 that the issue had been rectified after Gemini successfully demonstrated her top speed during trials.
Armament
Sensors & countermeasures
Variants
Unique among the rest of her class, Ophuichus was modified for special operations and classified intelligence missions by the insertion of a 2,084 tonne Multi-Mission Interface (MMI) hull block behind the sail in place of the standard hull module installed with four Variable Payload Tubes (VPTs). While originally scheduled to be commissioned as normal sometime during 2015, in 2013 Yanmei Shipyard was awarded a ₡1.40 billion credit contract and 2 year extension for a large-scale, mid-construction modification of the Ophuichus to support "classified research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) efforts for notional naval special warfare missions, tactical undersea surveillance, and undersea warfare concepts" without unduly sacrificing the her warfighting capabilities. As a result of the modification, Ophuichus is approximately 5 metres longer and 128 tonnes heavier than other Aries-class submarines. The MMI hull insert is unique in being of a smaller diameter than the rest of the pressure hull i.e. the Ophuichus' hull has horizontal 'hourglass' configuration that narrows the pressure hull down to a 'wasp waist'. As faired over to maintain a smooth hydrodynamic hull shape, significant external volume is available outside the pressure hull for storage and deployment of mission systems. The section is fitted with an ocean interface for divers and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
Ophuichus is also fitted with additional maneuvering devices fitted at the fore and aft of the hull which allow her to maintain a stationary position in varying currents. According to intelligence experts, it is likely that these allow the MMI to be operated as an underwater splicing chamber for tapping undersea fibre-optic cables. When questioned in 2016, a GCN spokesman refused to either confirm or deny whether such missions would be performed by the Ophuichus, saying: "That sort of information's going to be classified by nature."
Service history
Boats in class
| Name | Hull No. | Builder | Laid down | Launched | Commissioned | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aries | SSN-20 | Yanmei Shipyard Co., Yanmei | 2 September 2000 | 16 August 2006 | 23 October 2008 | Active in service |
| Taurus | SSN-21 | 27 August 2002 | 17 June 2008 | 5 May 2009 | Active in service | |
| Gemini | SSN-22 | 30 April 2003 | 21 February 2009 | 25 October 2009 | Active in service | |
| Cancer | SSN-23 | 27 September 2003 | 20 November 2009 | 31 July 2010 | Active in service | |
| Leo | SSN-24 | 9 June 2005 | 15 September 2011 | 2 June 2012 | Active in service | |
| Virgo | SSN-25 | 11 May 2006 | 10 December 2011 | 25 October 2012 | Active in service | |
| Libra | SSN-26 | 2 June 2007 | 8 August 2012 | 29 October 2013 | Active in service | |
| Scorpio | SSN-27 | 7 March 2008 | 29 December 2013 | 17 March 2014 | Active in service | |
| Ophuichus | SSN-28 | 4 April 2008 | 14 October 2015 | 2 February 2017 | Active in service | |
| Sagittarius | SSN-29 | 31 January 2011 | 6 January 2016 | 27 August 2017 | Active in service | |
| Capricorn | SSN-30 | 22 October 2012 | 8 June 2017 | 1 March 2018 | Active in service | |
| Aquarius | SSN-31 | 14 September 2013 | 1 September 2017 | 11 December 2018 | Active in service | |
| Pisces | SSN-32 | 5 December 2014 | 13 May 2018 | 19 February 2019 | Active in service |