A Sub for Brown Water Use
One submarine that can take on emerging littoral threats is the ANDRASTA submarine, a multipurpose submarine that can operate efficiently and effectively in brown waters. ANDRASTA possesses rugged and reliable platform systems, advanced combat system capabilities and architecture inherited from the Scorpène-class submarine.
ANDRASTA possesses growth potential for additional payloads, such as swimmer delivery vehicle capability and external capacities for mines. Provisions have been made for air defense weapons. Maneuverable in deep and shallow waters, ANDRASTA is fitted with an X-shaped aft steering gear developed for the new French SSN Barracuda class to allow for greater depth control. In addition, forward hydroplanes enable faster crash diving and good diving stability.
ANDRASTA has a high level of automation. In typical diving conditions, five crew members operate under a three-watch system for efficient and safe operations. The submarine is equipped with technologies inherited from the Direction des Constructions Navales Services combat system family. It can perform a range of functionalities, such as providing the raw data from all sensors, tactical situation elaboration and evaluation, tactical aids and target engagement.
It is equipped with a complete panel of acoustic sensors, including cylindrical array, distributed array, flank array, mine and obstacle avoidance sonar, interception array and active array antennae. The sub’s above-water detection includes a radar and attack optronic mast with high-definition television, low-light television, an infrared ranging system and electronic support measures. An extended communications suite consists of a multifunction communications mast, a high-frequency buoyant wire antenna and an INMARSAT (London, England) C antenna. Coherent with its littoral deterrence mission are six ready-to-launch heavyweight torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.
Finally, ANDRASTA is fitted with a dedicated diver trunk, enabling it to simultaneously support three divers at a time. A large area in the sail is designed to be the divers’ external meeting point before and after operations, and the sub is outfitted with dedicated equipment storage.