Zvezdochka Shipyard Repairs Varshavyanka-Class Subs

23.12.2011 Zvezdochka Ship Repair Center (Severodvinsk) speeds up works on Northern Fleet (NF) Project 877 diesel submarines, told a source in the shipyard to Central Navy Portal.

Two NF diesel electric submarines of this type – SSK Kaluga and SSK Vladikavkaz – are currently under repair at Zvezdochka.

Kaluga arrived at the shipyard in 2003. Some time ago there were proposals to sell her abroad, decommission, or even dismantle, but in 2009 it was decided to repair and modernize the sub. Thanks to stable financing, works on SSK Kaluga has reached the final stage. According to schedule, the submarine will be launched in 2012 and after all appropriate trials join the Navy by the end of 2012.

Second Russian Varshavyanka-class submarine – SSK Vladikavkaz – was put on the Zvezdochka slipways quite recently. The yard will sign a takeover certificate late in Dec 2011, and in the next year experts of Zvezdochka will start troubleshooting of hull, internal systems, and then gradually launch a large-scale repair work. Volume of modernization is the same as on SSK Kaluga and includes upgrading of weapons, communication and navigation systems, and sonars.

As is expected, Defense Order 2012 would be approved by the end of the current year. Along with Kaluga, interim overhaul and modernization of Vladikavkaz would be stipulated as well, with delivery term of 2014. Defense Order 2011 provided only maintenance costs for that sub.

Zvezdochka shipyard has been effectively repairing and modernizing non-nuclear submarines for Indian Navy throughout 15 years. Fifth Indian sub – INS Sindhurakshak – is being presently repaired on slipway of 10-th shop. In Dec 2011, Indian Navy's delegation visited the shipyard to inspect works and settle technical and financial issues. The parties talked about payment for additional works and delivery of Indian equipment.

Basic characteristics of Project 877 diesel electric submarines:

surface displacement – 2,300 tons
submerged displacement – 3,100 tons
dimensions: length – 73 meters, beam – about 10 meters, draft – about 6.5 meters
submerged speed – 17 knots
surface speed – about 10 knots
submerged range – over 6,500 miles
diving depth – down to 300 meters
endurance – 45 days
main propulsion plant – diesel electric, 1 x 5,500-shp propeller motor, 2 x 1,000-kW diesel generators, 1 screw
armament: 6 x 533-mm torpedo tubes (18 torpedoes or 24 mines), 8 Igla-type self-defense SAM systems
crew – about 60 men including 15 officers