By Dean Murray via SWNS
A fearsome attack submarine is being built that could help fight Russian forces.
A Ukrainian company based in the United Arab Emirates has completed a prototype of the Kronos stealth vehicle.
Highland Systems‘ sub will be able to sneak up on enemies and launch devastating torpedo attacks or secretly place magnetic mines on warships.
As well as packing armaments, Kronos will have room for ten special forces troops, along with the pilot.
An Italian-made “Black Scorpion” torpedo system has a range of 3000m, with which Highland Systems say Kronos “can neutralize all surface and underwater threats and in general defend itself from hostile aggressors.”
The nine-meter-long craft can zip along at 50mph on water and 31mph when submerged, powered by a hybrid engine using an electric battery and diesel system.
Maximum dive depth is 250 meters with a 36-hour air supply for extended missions.
As well as fold-up wings for transportation, James Bond-like devices onboard include an underwater drone and a quadcopter that can fly off on reconnaissance missions.
The pilot navigates the sub using interior digital screens, but it can also be operated remotely as a stealth drone.
A Highland Systems spokesperson says sea tests have been ongoing for the past year. They say: “It is ready and tested, and is now undergoing modernization and upgrades after results.
“We are installing a more powerful and quieter engine and electric batteries”.
The company says they cannot confirm Ukrainian deployment at this time, “but have other countries customers ready for placing orders.”
Upgrades to the vessel are expected to be completed by September, the spokesperson confirmed.
