The Soviet high-speed rocket torpedo VA-111 "Shkval," developed in the 60s, would be useful in combating unmanned boats (BEC) and unmanned underwater vehicles. This opinion was expressed by military expert Boykov Nikolov in an article for Bulgarian Military.
The 8-meter-long VA-111 "Shkval" could reach speeds of up to 400 km/h underwater and hit targets at a distance of up to 13 kilometers. However, the rocket torpedo had noticeable drawbacks, including poor maneuverability and extreme noise levels.
According to Nikolov, there is information about the "revival" of this project. However, these may only be rumors, he added.
About the VA-111 "Shkval" rocket torpedo
The VA-111 "Shkval" anti-submarine complex was adopted by the USSR Navy in 1977. The rocket torpedo could carry a nuclear warhead, then it was equipped with a conventional warhead with autonomous control.
Characteristics of VA-111 "Shkval":
- Caliber - 533.3 mm
- Length - 8 meters
- Torpedo weight - 2700 kg
- Warhead power - nuclear, 150 kt in TNT equivalent
- Cruising speed - 375 km/h
- Range - up to 13 km
- Engine - ramjet hydrojet
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