Russia's $5 billion naval setback: Cruiser delays drag on
The Russian nuclear cruiser "Admiral Nakhimov" has been under repair since 1997, despite $5 billion having been spent on it, reports the Ukrainian portal Defense Express.
9:32 AM EST, November 16, 2024
The Russian defense industry has been struggling for years with issues related to the repair of the cruiser "Admiral Nakhimov." The ship, originally slated to be ready for sea trials in November 2024, still remains in the shipyard. Furthermore, according to Defense Express, the timeline for these tests is still uncertain.
it cost $5 billion and has been under repair for nearly 30 years
The cruiser "Admiral Nakhimov," part of project 1144 "Orlan," has been undergoing repairs since 1997. In spite of substantial financial investments totaling at least $5 billion, the vessel is still not service-ready. Russian media attribute the delays to the challenging weather conditions in the White Sea, where the sea trials were scheduled to occur.
Alternative explanations suggest that Russia is prioritizing the construction of new units, like missile corvettes and nuclear submarines, over the repair of the "Admiral Nakhimov." Defense Express highlights that this situation is problematic for the Russian navy, noting that "it is better not to rush launching an unprepared nuclear vessel into the sea."
A symbol of Russian problems
The cruiser "Admiral Nakhimov" was intended to be outfitted with 80 missile launchers for "Onyx," "Kalibr," and "Zircon" missiles. However, its modernization is still ongoing. Russia cannot decommission the "Peter the Great" until the "Admiral Nakhimov" is completed.
Russian media attempt to justify the delays by referring to the ice season on the White Sea and the necessity for thorough preparation of the ship before its departure. Defense Express argues that the situation with the "Admiral Nakhimov" symbolizes the challenges facing the Russian shipbuilding industry.
Notably, the missiles expected to be onboard the "Admiral Nakhimov" represent a formidable arsenal. The "Onyx" missiles have a range of 373 miles and can reach a maximum speed of approximately 1,988 mph. The "Kalibr" missiles have a range of 186 miles and can accelerate to 621 mph, while the "Zircon" missiles have a range of 373 miles and achieve a maximum speed of 4,970 mph.
