Tri-Service
Reports: Russian Submarine Prowling Med Off Syrian Coast
Russian state media has reported on an advanced Kilo-class submarine appearing close to the Syrian coast, equipped with Russian Kalibr cruise missiles.
The Rostov-on-Don [pictured] was allegedly involved in strikes against the Daesh stronghold of Raqqa back in November.
The reports, coming from a source in the Russian Ministry of Defence cited by Interfax, are as yet unconfirmed by the Russian MoD.
Russia previously targeted IS targets in October with the same Kalibr cruise missile fired from warships in the Caspian Sea.
Kalibr-PL cruise missile launch from a submarine
The 'improved Kilo' class is the NATO designated name for the new advanced Russian naval submarine, also known as Project 636 Varshavyanka.
Dubbed a "black hole" by NATO due to its undetectable ability, it is one of the quietest submarines under the waves.
The Russian Kilo class is being operated by several countries around the world including China and Iran.
The sub carries 533 mm torpedoes and eight surface-to-air missiles, in addition to a new Kalibr land attack cruise missile complex. Its tonnage is 4,000 tons; its underwater speed reaches 40 knots (37 km per hour), and its maximal submission is 300 meters. Its crew consists of 52 persons and it can fulfil its duty autonomously for 45 days.
As British military presence in the region increases, the appearance of the Rostov-On-Don heightens concerns of overlapping forces in the region following the downing of a Russian bomber in November.
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