The Shkval (Squall) underwater rocket.

The Shkval is the first use of supercavitational technology in modern weapons and represents perhaps the largest leap forward in underwater warfare since the invention of the submarine itself.

Launched from Bars (Akula) and Antyey (Oscar) class submarines, Shkval torpedoes travel at over five times the speed of conventional torpedoes. Propelled forward by a rocket engine, there are no countermeasures or defenses which can stop the Shkval.

Speed: 300 mph+
Length: 26 ft
Range: 5 miles
Warhead: 400 lb conventional or nuclear


www.fas.org...

[Edited on 6-6-2003 by $tranger]

Code-named the Shkval (Squall), the new weapon travels at a velocity that would give a targeted vessel very little chance to perform evasive action.

Maybe that's what happened to the Kursk.

do any photos of the Shkval exsist. also 5 mile range and a nuclear warhead, wouldn't that knock out the sub launching it to

No, the sub that lauched it would probably go dead on purpose to avoid emp, ever seen Broken arrow?

Does that "guidance wire spool" part mean that 5 miles of wire get fed out as well? Thats a heap of wire...

shkval-e are also for export
www.milparade.com...



[Edited on 7-6-2003 by $tranger]

From Norwegian seismological records, it appeared that the submarine was destroyed by two explosions. A subsequent enquiry confirmed that these were caused by the explosion of a Type 65 high test peroxide (HTP) 650mm torpedo, which triggered the explosion in the weapons compartment that caused the vessel to sink. The blast was caused by highly volatile torpedo propellant that leaked and came in contact with kerosene and metal. Vain efforts to rescue any surviving crew were aided by the UK�s LR5 submarine rescue vehicle and a Norwegian diving team.


[Edited on 7-6-2003 by $tranger]

Originally posted by Netchicken
Does that "guidance wire spool" part mean that 5 miles of wire get fed out as well? Thats a heap of wire...

As far as I know supercaviting projectiles can't guide themselves as no control surfaces actually touch the water, due to the cavity.
Relying on Russain sonar to give the Shkval target range and bearing wouldn't fill me with confidence.