Kilo Class Submarine

Full Specifications

Kilo Class Submarine Silent Diesel Electric Attack Sub

The Kilo class submarine is one of the most widely exported conventional submarines in modern naval history. Designed during the Cold War, it remains relevant due to its stealth focused design and proven combat reliability. Western navies long referred to it as a black hole because of its low acoustic signature in littoral waters.

Origin and Manufacturer

The Kilo class was developed by the Rubin Design Bureau and built primarily at Admiralty Shipyards in Russia. Introduced in the early 1980s, it was intended as a coastal and regional sea denial platform for the Soviet Navy. Over time, upgraded variants expanded its mission set and export appeal.

Mission and Capabilities

This submarine is optimized for anti ship and anti submarine warfare. It is also capable of intelligence gathering, mine laying, and special forces insertion. Operating on diesel electric propulsion, the Kilo class prioritizes quiet movement over raw speed, making it effective in choke points and shallow seas.

Performance and Armament

The Kilo class reaches speeds of around 17 knots submerged and has an operational range exceeding 6000 nautical miles on diesel power. It is armed with six forward torpedo tubes capable of launching heavyweight torpedoes, anti ship cruise missiles, and naval mines. Later variants support land attack cruise missiles, increasing strategic value.

Operational Use

Kilo class submarines are operated by several U.S. strategic competitors and partners, including Russia, China, India, and Iran. They have been deployed in the Black Sea, Mediterranean, and Indo Pacific regions, where their stealth poses challenges to NATO naval forces.

Kilo Class Submarine Price

There is no direct purchase price for the Kilo class submarine in the United States, as it is not operated or procured by the U.S. Navy. However, international unit costs are estimated between 250 and 350 million USD depending on configuration, weapons, and support packages. U.S. analysts often reference this cost range when comparing foreign diesel electric submarine capabilities to American nuclear powered platforms.