R-13 (missile)

The R-13 ( NATO reporting name SS-N -4 Sark, GRAU index 4K50 ) was a submarine - launched ballistic missile ( SLBM ) of the former Soviet Union.

The R-13 was a single-stage rocket with liquid engines. Development began in 1955 and the missile entered service in 1961. It was similar to the R- 11FM missile, which led to confusion among Western intelligence agencies during the Cold War. Between 1965 and 1975, the missile was decommissioned.

The rocket was the first Soviet pattern rather than controllable aerodynamic surfaces used small rocket engines to perform rough course corrections. Nevertheless, four stabilizers were maintained in order to keep the missile in the initial phase on track. The launch took place from the surfaced U- boat.

During the test phase prior to entry were 26 of 32 test flights successfully ( 81%). While the rocket was stationed, were 225 of 311 flights successfully ( 72%).

Specifications

• Length: 11.8 m
• Diameter: 1.3 m
• Diameter with stabilizers: 1.9 m
• Start weight: 13.7 t
• Range: about 600 km
• CEP: 1,8 bis 4.0 km
• Warhead: single nuclear warhead ( 1.2 -2 MT)

Swell

Http://www.fas.org/nuke/guide/russia/slbm/r-13.htm ( eng.)

• Submarine missile