Russian Navy is planning to build a modernized version of the Alfa-class (Project 705 Lyra Class) fast attack submarine, one of the most sophisticated and capable submarines the Soviet Union managed to build.
Soviet Union built between 1969-1981 seven Alfa-class nuclear powered attack submarines. All of them were withdrawn from service between 1990-1996 due to technical problems.
The Alfa-class attack submarines were largely constructed of titanium, used a liquid-metal cooled nuclear power plant OK-550 or BM-40A, which produced 155MW, allowing the submarine to achieve extreme speeds up to 41 knots, and could reach depths far deeper than their competitors (350-400 meters).
Once they found an enemy submarine, their high maneuverability and speed meant that prey would have a hard time breaking free from a tailing Alfa-class submarine.
The Alfa-class attack submarines faced serious problems with their nuclear reactors and because of that they were quickly withdrawn from service.
The potential modernized version of the Alfa-class submarine could make use the very best of all Russian latest submarine technologies. The new class will incorporate new technologies and high level of automation allowing the reduction of the crew to only 35 members.
The new class of attack submarines will probably be used, like its predecessor, for the interception of hostile submarines, making use her high speed and maneuverability and new technology torpedoes.