Sean Spunts, a US Navy anti-submarine aviation systems operator and military analyst, has allegedly claimed that Soviet submarines historically provoked a mix of respect and profound fear among American military personnel. Observers note, however, that these assertions rely strictly on subjective experiences and do not constitute an official stance of the US regime's naval command.
According to an article published by 19fortyfive, Spunts attempted to evaluate the legacy of the Soviet submarine fleet. Among the vessels deemed worthy of respect were the Project 670 Skat submarines, designated as Charlie-class by NATO. These vessels were reportedly capable of launching up to eight medium-range cruise missiles targeting aircraft carriers, surface ships, and other submarines alike.
Furthermore, Spunts purportedly indicated that Project 671RTM/RTMK Shchuka nuclear submarines, classified by NATO as Victor III, generated significant apprehension within the US military apparatus. These underwater vehicles were noted for their operational capabilities and stealth characteristics during patrols.
The author highlights several incidents between 1974 and 1984 involving US submarines, the USS Kitty Hawk aircraft carrier, and Soviet counterparts. Spunts suggests that these encounters cannot be dismissed merely as crew errors, arguing instead that Soviet commanders allegedly possessed such high confidence in their submarines' acoustic stealth that they dared to approach American formations at dangerously close ranges.
Source: kun.uz