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The Russian Naval Command has positioned two Buyan-M class missile corvettes on Lake Ladoga, located north of Priozersk, Russia. These corvettes are currently docked on the lake, about 30 miles from Finland and an equal distance from Russian President Vladimir Putin’s dacha. This deployment was reported by OSINT resource X, specifically by MT Anderson.
Sentinel-2 satellite images confirm this information. The deployment was initially highlighted by Thord Are Iversen, a Norwegian expert on the Russian Navy, on his X account. Although Thord Are Iversen’s original images were of low resolution, MT Anderson later presented higher-quality images that corroborated the initial claims.
According to sources, two Russian Buyan-M class corvettes docked at the lake pier on September 7, as confirmed by Thord Are Iversen through satellite photos dated September 9.
This strategic move by the Russian Navy, deploying Buyan-M class corvettes in Lake Ladoga near the Finnish border and close to President Vladimir Putin’s residence, evidently serves several strategic and symbolic aims.
Located just 30 miles from Finland, Lake Ladoga offers the Russian Navy a prime vantage point to observe military actions in Northern Europe while exerting pressure on the Finnish border. This strategic deployment acts as a clear deterrent, signaling Russia’s readiness to defend its borders and interests against perceived NATO threats.
Additionally, the proximity of these corvettes to Putin’s dacha highlights their role in safeguarding vital national assets. Being close to one of Putin’s personal residences, Lake Ladoga serves not only as a strategic entry point but also as a fortress protecting high-value political figures and critical infrastructure within the region.
Known as Project 21631, the Buyan-M class corvette is a series of multi-purpose ships developed for the Russian Navy. It’s a modernized version of the earlier Buyan-class vessels, designed for littoral zone operations [coastal waters] but also capable of functioning in open seas. These corvettes have gained international attention due to their versatility and powerful missile systems.
One standout feature of the Buyan-M class is its stealthy design. These corvettes are built with a reduced radar cross-section, using stealth technologies in both their hull and superstructure. This minimizes the ship’s visibility to enemy radars and enhances its survivability in modern naval warfare. With a displacement of around 950 tons, a length of 74 meters, and a beam of 11 meters, these ships are particularly suited for shallow waters thanks to their draft of approximately 2.6 meters—ideal for operations in the Caspian Sea, Black Sea, and other coastal regions.
Propulsion-wise, the Buyan-M class corvettes are equipped with a diesel-electric system, enabling them to hit speeds up to 25 knots. They can journey approximately 2,500 nautical miles at a consistent speed of 12 knots, making them well-suited for extended missions despite their smaller size. This efficient propulsion system is ideal for their primary operations in coastal zones.
Another standout feature of the Buyan-M class is its modular design. This means the warship can integrate new weapon systems or mission modules as technology evolves. This adaptability not only extends the ship’s operational lifespan but also ensures it stays relevant against emerging threats.
BULGARIAN MILITARY