Ukrainian company Highland Systems has developed a stealth submarine that can turn the tables in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war because of its special features. It is the world’s first stealth submarine capable of a 180-degree turn at full speed.
The UAE-based Highland Systems says the manta ray-shaped submarine named Kronos can accommodate 10 passengers and it can carry a load of up to 3000 kilograms on water and has a curb weight of around 10,000 kilograms.
Kronos can achieve a maximum speed of 80 km per hour on water and 50 km per hour underwater. Its working depth is up to 100 metres and it can achieve maximum critical depth of 250 metres.
The submarine can run on diesel or battery, once fully charged it can run for 18 hours on battery alone. The generator can make it run for 36 hours, giving it a total of 54 hours of operational time in hybrid mode.
Kronos can accommodate 10 passengers and it can achieve a maximum speed of 80 km per hour on water and 50 km per hour underwater. Its working depth is up to 100 metres and it can achieve maximum critical depth of 250 metres.
Kronos has a steel hull covered in composite material to give it a low signature. It has an operational range of 1,000 km and can be operated remotely.
Highland Systems says the electric engine and sonar-absorbing coating make it a dangerous stealth craft. It can also come close to slow-moving or moored enemy ships undetected to attach magnetic mines which can then be detonated from a safe distance.
Kronos can operate in waters as shallow as 15 metres, and its top speed makes it a fearsome craft.
This submarine can launch torpedoes and it can carry six Black Scorpion torpedoes, which are developed by weapons manufacturer Leonardo, according to a report by Fast Company.
The electric engine and sonar-absorbing coating make Kronos a dangerous stealth craft. It can come close to slow-moving or moored enemy ships undetected to attach magnetic mines, which can be detonated from a safe distance
However, it is the ability to turn rapidly and sink straight to the ocean bed that makes Kronos a force to reckon with. Also, its top speed makes it difficult for enemy vessels to chase and overpower it using its weaponry.
Highland Systems first presented the hydrodynamic hull submarine at the Naval Defense and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) in 2023.
According to Alexander Kuznetsov, the founder of Highland Systems and its chief designer, the submarine was first built for two main purposes – to carry workers for underwater repairs and to serve the luxury travel needs of the super-rich. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine forced Kuznetsov and his team to redesign the submarine for military operations.
The manta ray shape of this submarine results in a stealthier and much more agile vehicle than the classic cigar-shaped underwater submarines used around the world. It is suited even for commercial and rescue operations.
