In Modern Warships, the battlefield stretches far beyond the ocean surface and the skies above. Some of the most intense and spectacular clashes unfold beneath the restless sea itself. There, in the murky depths among coral reefs, rocky formations, and the wrecks of ships sunk in fierce combat, reigns a class that demands a unique tactical approach. And no, we are not talking about a survival battle between a swordfish and a hammerhead shark.
In this invisible war, submarines take center stage — one of the most situational, yet no less dangerous, classes in the game. They embody stealth and surprise, using the ocean depths as both their greatest weapon and their cover. Success in submarine combat depends less on brute force and more on careful maneuvering and delivering sudden, devastating torpedo strikes. This makes them an unpredictable and highly dangerous factor on the battlefield.
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the unique role of submarines. We will explain how their proper use can change the outcome of any engagement, examine the specifics of their arsenal, and explore the tactical techniques that turn this class from a simple vessel into a true “sea wolf” of Modern Warships.
Armaments
The primary firepower of submarines comes from missiles and torpedoes. Missile armament is divided into two main categories:
AShMs (Anti-Ship Missiles) serve as versatile weapons effective against virtually any target, giving submarines equipped with these slots a high degree of flexibility. These missiles are generally decoyable (they can be diverted by countermeasures).
SLBMs (Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles), on the other hand, are designed to inflict massive damage on enemy ships. Their exceptional range allows them to strike targets from almost anywhere on the map, making them the perfect choice for players who prefer attacking without leaving their spawn position.
Torpedoes (when they are not the submarine’s primary weapon system) are most often used as close-range defensive tools against surface ships or enemy submarines that suddenly close the distance.
Submarines also possess a pair of unique consumables that can often save their lives:
Torpedo Decoys can divert incoming decoyable torpedoes, preventing damage.
Oxygen Reserve allows submarines to replenish their air supply without surfacing. However, you should not rely on it to remain underwater for the entire battle, as the consumable has a lengthy 60-second cooldown.
Diving Mechanics
The diving system is a signature mechanic available exclusively to submarines (with the exception of the aircraft carrier USS Nemesis (CV-02)). Diving allows submarines to evade aircraft attacks, naval gunfire, and most enemy missiles.
A unique feature belongs to Pan Spatial Bermuda: the periscope depth mode. In this mode, the submarine replenishes its oxygen supply while remaining vulnerable only to grenade launchers.
For submarines equipped with anti-ship missiles, there is a particularly tricky tactic. The idea is to surface briefly, launch missiles, and immediately dive back underwater. This maneuver can confuse opponents, but it requires perfect timing: surfacing at the wrong moment can lead to instant destruction.
Remember: your oxygen supply is not infinite! Once depleted, the submarine will automatically surface and will not be able to dive again until the oxygen reserve is fully restored.
Classes
Submarines can generally be divided into three subclasses, each offering a completely distinct gameplay experience. Below is a detailed overview of these categories.
SLBM Carrier Submarines
This subclass specializes in attacks using Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs). SLBMs feature a unique guidance system, a high flight trajectory, difficult interception mechanics, and a large blast radius. Unlike anti-ship missiles, which are guaranteed to hit their target unless intercepted by enemy air defenses, SLBMs can miss entirely. This makes gameplay with this subclass more complex and tactical, encouraging players to better understand strategy and predict enemy movement across most maps. These submarines perform best at long range. However, if enemies close the distance, SLBM usage becomes impossible, and the available torpedo launchers may not be sufficient for self-defense.
Torpedo Submarines
Unlike the previous subclass, torpedo submarines offer a radically different gameplay style. Instead of relying on long-range weaponry, these submarines are equipped either primarily or entirely with torpedo launchers.
Multi-Role Submarines
These submarines combine the best aspects of both worlds: they are equally effective in missile engagements and torpedo attacks. Certain models, such as RF Strazh and Pan Spatial Bermuda, stand out thanks to their unique equipment, including naval guns and grenade launchers (with the latter even carrying a helicopter!). Special mention should also be given to ATAKRP 941-Bis, as it is the only submarine in the game capable of carrying a strike fighter squadron.
Ultimately, submarines in Modern Warships are more than just vehicles; they combine supreme stealth, devastating firepower, and immense tactical potential. They change the rules of the game through surprise attacks and the skillful use of their unique mechanics. Remember: to become a “sea wolf,” you need to do more than just press buttons—you must masterfully control your distance, monitor your oxygen supply, and know the map inside and out. A submarine’s effectiveness is a direct reflection of the player’s own tactical genius.