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BULGARIA MILTARY
A fleet, including the missile cruiser Varyag and the frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov, has successfully navigated the Suez Canal, transitioning from the Mediterranean Sea to the Red Sea, as confirmed by the Pacific Fleet [PF] on Wednesday.
“Presently, the Pacific Fleet’s crews continue their designated missions as part of their extensive voyage. Just days ago, these sailors engaged in combat training exercises alongside the standing naval forces in the Mediterranean Sea,” the PF statement highlighted.
Starting on January 22 of this year, the Pacific Fleet embarked on a long-range mission engaging in various combat drills and managing daily operational tasks at sea, as reported by the fleet’s press office. During this period, the fleet made port calls in India, Sri Lanka, Iran, Qatar, and Eritrea. Leading this mission is the Varyag missile cruiser, the flagship of Russia’s Pacific Fleet.
Also part of the Pacific Fleet is the “Marshal Shaposhnikov,” a frigate that has been modernized to carry Kalibr missiles—a family of Russian cruise missiles developed by the design bureau Novator, JSC Concern VKO Almaz-Antey.
About Varyag
The Russian missile cruiser Varyag is a Slava-class cruiser, also known by its project designation Project 1164 Atlant. It was commissioned into the Soviet Navy in 1989 and later served in the Russian Navy’s Pacific Fleet. The Varyag is named after a famous Russian cruiser from the early 20th century and has been involved in various naval exercises and missions, showcasing Russia’s naval capabilities.
The Varyag has an overall length of approximately 186.4 meters [611 feet] and a beam of 20.8 meters [68 feet]. Its draft is around 8.4 meters [27.6 feet], allowing it to navigate various maritime environments. These dimensions make the Varyag a formidable presence on the water, capable of housing a wide array of weaponry and advanced systems.
The propulsion system of the Varyag consists of four gas turbines, which together generate a total power output of 120,000 shaft horsepower. This propulsion setup enables the cruiser to reach speeds of up to 32 knots [59 km/h or 37 mph]. The combination of speed and maneuverability allows the Varyag to effectively perform its roles in both offensive and defensive naval operations.
The armament of the Varyag is extensive and diverse, reflecting its role as a missile cruiser. It is equipped with 16 P-500 Bazalt [SS-N-12 Sandbox] anti-ship missiles, which are its primary offensive weapons. Additionally, the Varyag carries a variety of surface-to-air missiles, including the S-300F Fort [SA-N-6 Grumble] and Osa-MA [SA-N-4 Gecko] systems, providing robust air defense capabilities. The cruiser also features AK-130 twin 130mm guns, AK-630 close-in weapon systems, and torpedo tubes, making it a versatile and heavily armed vessel.
About Marshal Shaposhnikov
The Russian frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov is a Udaloy-class destroyer originally designed for anti-submarine warfare. Over time, it has been modernized to enhance its multi-role capabilities, making it a versatile asset in the Russian Navy.
The dimensions of the Marshal Shaposhnikov include a length of approximately 163 meters [535 feet], a beam of 19.3 meters [63 feet], and a draft of 7.8 meters [25.6 feet]. These dimensions contribute to its substantial presence and operational capacity in various maritime environments.
The propulsion system of the Marshal Shaposhnikov is based on a Combined Gas and Gas [COGAG] arrangement. It features four gas turbines that provide a total power output of around 120,000 horsepower, enabling the vessel to reach speeds of up to 35 knots [about 65 kilometers per hour].
The armament of the Marshal Shaposhnikov is diverse and formidable. It includes anti-ship missiles, such as the P-270 Moskit [SS-N-22 Sunburn], and anti-aircraft systems like the Kinzhal [SA-N-9 Gauntlet] missiles. Additionally, it is equipped with torpedo tubes, anti-submarine rocket launchers, and a variety of naval guns, including the AK-100 100mm dual-purpose gun.