Missile P-120 Malakhit (SS-N-9 Siren)

Development of the P-120 Malakhit (NATO reporting name: SS-N-9 Siren) began in 1963 to provide a submerged-launch capability for submarines, addressing the vulnerability of surface-launched systems. Initially designated P-50, the project evolved into the P-120. Due to development delays, the P-70 Ametist was used as an interim system on Charlie I-class submarines before the P-120 reached operational status. The missile design also served as the basis for the SS-N-14 Silex rocket-propelled torpedo.

The P-120 is a subsonic anti-ship missile powered by a turbojet engine and solid fuel propellant. It is capable of being launched from submarines at depths of up to 50 meters. Guidance is provided by an L-band seeker and a radar altimeter, with datalink equipment allowing for mid-course updates from the launch platform or external sources. The missile is equipped with either a high-explosive semi-armour-piercing (HE-SAP) warhead or a 200 kt nuclear warhead.

The missile entered service with Soviet Navy corvettes on March 17, 1972, and was accepted for submarine use in November 1977. It was deployed on Nanuchka-class and Sarancha-class corvettes, as well as Charlie II-class submarines. Charlie II submarines carried eight missiles, of which two typically carried thermonuclear warheads. The system was widely deployed by the Soviet Union and remains in service with the Russian Navy, though it has been superseded by the P-270 Moskit. During the 2008 action off Abkhazia, the Russian Black Sea Fleet deployed the missile; reports indicate a missile was mistakenly fired at the Moldovan cargo vessel MV Lotos-1.