Project 885M "Yasen-M" nuclear submarines represent a significant step in the development of multi-purpose nuclear submarines: they combine reduced acoustic signature, modern materials, advanced sonar, and powerful missile armament. This conclusion was made by military analyst Andrey Kashkarov, calling the appearance of these ships a natural stage in the development of armaments.
One type is easier and better to use for detecting, tracking, and controlling enemy nuclear submarines, as is done with American Virginia and Seawolf. Another type, like the Russian "Yasen," is capable of performing combat operations at great depths and has powerful strike potential. That is why the submarine is conditionally called an "aircraft carrier killer."
Kashkarov specifically noted the design solutions related to reducing visibility. The "Yasen-M" uses composite and sound-absorbing materials, and the elements of the internal structure are made taking into account noise reduction requirements. According to the specialist, the acoustic characteristics of the submarines are comparable to the best foreign counterparts.
The "Yasen-M" is a fourth-generation nuclear submarine designed to perform various tasks. Its submerged displacement is about 14,000 tons, and it can accommodate up to 32 vertical launch systems for "Kalibr," "Oniks," and "Zircon" missiles. The nuclear submarine can operate autonomously for up to 100 days.