Russian naval designer Rubin Design Bureau has shared photos of a new iteration of its submersible patrol ship that is supposed to combine the best of both worlds.
The chimera of a patrol ship and a submarine was first revealed in April last year, when the company also said the project was geared toward foreign customers.
Just like its predecessor, the second design will be known as “Guard” (Border and Offshore Submersible Sentry, BOSS), and will be capable of moonlighting as an inexpensive training asset for preparing crews for the operation of more conventional submarines.
The variant unveiled on February 9 is the largest version yet, according to Rubin, with a length of about 72 meters and a displacement of about 1,300 tons. The vessel will have a cruising range of up to 4,000 miles at a speed of 10 knots. Additionally, a more powerful powerplant will allow this BOSS variant to reach speeds of 21 knots.
When it comes to armament, the ship will field a small-caliber automatic gun, two launchers for guided missiles and four torpedo tubes.
Rubin noted that the increase in size would provide the design with more functionality, while the introduction a wave-piercing stern and new contours would reduce the roll, increase the stability of the ship, and also reduce radar visibility.
