Zumwalt-Class Destroyer's Countermeasure Against Russian Submarine-Launched Anti-Ship Missiles: A Comprehensive Analysis

Introduction

The United States Navy's Zumwalt-class destroyer embodies the latest in naval defense technology. This advanced ship is designed to counter a myriad of threats, including submarine-launched anti-ship missiles like Russia's Kalibr (SS-N-30) and the SS-NX-26 Oniks. This article will explore the detailed countermeasure tactics the USS Zumwalt employs to neutralize these threats.

Threat Recognition and Initial Response

Let's dive into the sequence of events that unfold when the USS Zumwalt encounters a potential threat. The first critical step is threat recognition. In the dark of night or through fog, radar contacts are detected. The crew on duty in the Decision Center must identify the radar signature as a threat. They then escalate the alert to higher command, leading to immediate action.
Scenario: The OSSN (OpCenter Surveillance System Network) identifies a radar contact at 120 miles. This contact is immediately communicated to the Command Director of Weapons (CDCWO), who then wakes the TAO (Tactical Action Officer) to initiate the necessary steps for missile launch.

Weapon Launch Sequence

Once the TAO is alerted, the next critical step is target engagement. The TAO must identify the specific weapon system to use and launch the missile within a short timeframe. At 120 miles (requiring 4 minutes to reach the target), reducing the exposure time is vital for missile effectiveness. The TAO must be well-prepared, often keeping the launch arming key and necessary weapons close at hand or coordinating with a trusted associate to ensure quick response.

Zumwalt's Capabilities Against Submarine-Launched Anti-Ship Missiles

Assessing Potential Threats: USS Zumwalt vs. Kazan SSGN

The USS Zumwalt faces a significant threat in Kazan SSGN (Missile Submarine). Kazan SSGN is equipped with 32 SS-NX-26 Oniks anti-ship missiles. The scenario presented here is a pessimistic one, where the Zumwalt operates alone and must counter this threat effectively.
Step to Request: The Kazan SSGN, despite its advanced capabilities, is limited in its detection range and has to come within 30 miles to detect the Zumwalt using its sonar.

Engagement and Defense Strategy

Once the Kazan SSGN emits radar emissions and launches its missiles, the Zumwalt's radar systems, particularly the SPY-3 phased array radar, quickly detect and classify the incoming threat. With the SPY-3, radar emissions are detected at 74 miles, providing ample time for counteraction.
Countermeasures: The Zumwalt's surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, including SM-6, SM-2 MR, and ESSM, are activated. The use of active radar-guided missiles ensures accuracy even in dense missile environments. The VLA (Vertical Launch ASROC) system is activated to provide additional anti-submarine defense.

Leveraging Zumwalt's Stealth and Technology

Zumwalt's design emphasizes stealth, combining large size and compartmentation for enhanced survivability. The electric drive system further enhances its acoustic signature, making it difficult for the Kazan SSGN to detect. Additionally, the ship's small radar cross-section and reduced IR signature make it an formidable target for stealthier missiles.
Strategic Advantage: The combination of stealth technology and robust missile defense systems allows the Zumwalt to effectively counter the Oniks missile's threat. The submarine must engage the target from a closer range, reducing its available time window to launch its missiles successfully.

Conclusion

The USS Zumwalt, with its advanced technology and robust defensive measures, presents a formidable challenge to submarine-launched anti-ship missiles. While the Kazan SSGN is a capable adversary, the Zumwalt's capabilities, including its radar systems and missile defenses, significantly reduce the threat. In an operational setting, the Zumwalt could effectively neutralize multiple incoming missiles before deeming the threat neutralized.

Key Tactics Summarized

Threat Recognition and Initial Response: Rapid escalation of threat to higher command. Weapon Launch Sequence: Quick initiation and launch of missiles to reduce exposure time. Leveraging Zumwalt's Stealth: Utilizing low radar and IR signatures for enhanced survivability. Missile Defense Systems: Active radar-guided missiles for accurate engagement.

Understanding these tactics and scenarios is crucial for the effective operation of the USS Zumwalt in safeguarding its mission.