Kilo-Project 877EKM
1992 - Present
Russian-built diesel-electric attack submarine - Iran's most capable
Primary Specifications
Displacement
3076 ton
Medium-sized diesel submarine
Length
74 m
Standard Kilo hull length
Max Depth
300 m
Good operational diving depth
Armament (Primary)
6x 533mm tubes (18 torpedoes or 24 mines)
Torpedoes, mines, possibly Klub missiles
Crew
52
Standard Kilo class crew
Quick Summary
What it is?
Russia's proven export submarine providing Iran with credible undersea capability
Who uses it?
Islamic Republic of Iran Navy
Role
Anti-ship warfare, Mine laying, Area denial
What's different?
Only Iranian submarines capable of open ocean operations
Why it matters?
Primary threat to Gulf shipping and US naval forces
Real-World Impact
1
Persian Gulf Patrol
Regular patrols demonstrating Iranian submarine capability
2
Strait of Hormuz
Positioned to threaten shipping through the strait
3
Mine Laying Capability
Can covertly lay mines in shipping lanes
4
Anti-Carrier Role
Trained to target US aircraft carriers
Additional Features
Propulsion Type
Diesel-electric
Stealth Features
Extremely quiet when on battery; nicknamed "Black Hole"
Special Capabilities
Very quiet on electric motors; can launch Klub cruise missiles; Iran's only modern conventional subs
FAQs
1. How many Kilos does Iran have?
Three: Tariq, Noor, and Yunes2. Can they fire cruise missiles?
3. Are they a real threat?
4. What is their range?
5. Why are they called "Black Hole"?
*Powered by AI