Russian Design Bureau Completes Study on Autonomous Submarine Simulator Surrogat

Russia’s Rubin Central Design Bureau for Marine Engineering has completed research on a robotized system capable of simulating nuclear and non-nuclear submarines.

“Research into Surrogat was our own initiative. It has been completed and the results forwarded to the Defense Ministry’s organizations concerned. Consultations are underway,” Rubin’s CEO Igor Vilnit said in an interview.

Modular design allows for reconfiguring the vessel to perform different functions. It can simulate non-nuclear and nuclear submarines and carry out mapping and reconnaissance.

Modular design allows for reconfiguring the vessel to perform different functions. It can simulate non-nuclear and nuclear submarines and carry out mapping and reconnaissance.

The vessel may be used for naval exercises in situations where operational submarines cannot be distracted from their main duties. Also, the use of crewless simulators will help reduce costs and risks.

The Surrogat is powered by a lithium-ion battery. The crewless minisub is capable of simulating the manoeuvres of an enemy submarine for 15-16 hours at various speeds, including maximum ones. It has a displacement of 40 tonnes, the endurance of 600 miles at a speed of five knots, a maximum speed of 24 knots and submergence depth of 600 meters.