America's Virginia-Class Submarine vs. Russia's Lethal Yasen: Who Wins?

[ikalugin]

That is interesting as that would reduce the signature quite a bit at slow speeds but how long would they need to re engage the gearing if they need to make a run for it ?

It is just a mechanical disconnecter. If the reactor and turbine are up to speed, then it is not all that long.

@jadervason
@Kapitan
It is not a separate propulsion system like on other subs - it is a powerfull electric motor on the main shaft, much like in SSKs.