Intro
Explore the Admiral Nakhimov, a Russian battlecruiser with a rich history, from its Soviet-era origins to modern-day upgrades. Learn about its specifications, including its armament, propulsion, and defensive systems, as well as its notable deployments and operations. Discover the iconic warships capabilities and significance in the Russian Navys arsenal.
The Admiral Nakhimov, a Kirov-class battlecruiser, is one of the most formidable warships in the Russian Navy. Commissioned in 1988, the vessel has undergone several modernizations and upgrades, making it a potent symbol of Russian naval power. In this article, we will delve into the specifications and history of the Admiral Nakhimov, exploring its design, capabilities, and operational history.
Design and Specifications
Design Overview
The Admiral Nakhimov is a Kirov-class battlecruiser, designed by the Soviet Union's Severnoye Design Bureau. The vessel's design is based on the Project 1144 Orlan (Sea Eagle) class, with a displacement of approximately 24,500 tons. The ship's length is 251 meters (823 feet), with a beam of 28.5 meters (94 feet) and a draft of 9.1 meters (30 feet).
Main Specifications
- Length: 251 meters (823 feet)
- Beam: 28.5 meters (94 feet)
- Draft: 9.1 meters (30 feet)
- Displacement: approximately 24,500 tons
- Speed: 32 knots (59 km/h)
- Range: 7,500 nautical miles (13,890 km)
- Crew: approximately 700 personnel
Propulsion and Powerplant
The Admiral Nakhimov is powered by a pair of KN-3 nuclear reactors, which provide a combined output of 140,000 horsepower. The reactors are connected to two steam turbines, driving two fixed-pitch propellers. The vessel's propulsion system also includes a pair of auxiliary diesel generators, providing additional power for onboard systems.
Armament and Sensors
Main Armament
The Admiral Nakhimov is equipped with a range of armament, including:
- P-700 Granit (SS-N-19 Shipwreck) anti-ship missiles: 20 launchers
- S-300F (SA-N-6 Grumble) surface-to-air missiles: 12 launchers
- AK-130 130mm dual-purpose guns: 2 mounts
- AK-630 30mm close-in weapon systems: 6 mounts
- RBU-1000 (Uragan) anti-submarine rocket launchers: 2 mounts
Sensors and Electronics
- MR-750 Fregat-M (Top Plate) air search radar: 1 mount
- MR-145 Lev (Kite Screech) fire control radar: 2 mounts
- MR-184 Lev (Kite Screech) fire control radar: 2 mounts
- Sorbts (Sprut) electronic warfare system: 1 mount
Operational History
Commissioning and Early Service
The Admiral Nakhimov was commissioned on December 30, 1988, at the Severodvinsk shipyard. Initially, the vessel was assigned to the Northern Fleet, where it underwent a series of sea trials and training exercises.
Modernization and Upgrades
In the early 1990s, the Admiral Nakhimov underwent a major modernization program, which included the installation of new radar and electronic warfare systems. The vessel's anti-ship missile system was also upgraded, with the addition of new P-700 Granit missiles.
Recent Operations
In recent years, the Admiral Nakhimov has participated in several high-profile naval exercises, including the 2015 "Ocean Shield" exercise, which involved a joint naval task force from Russia, China, and Iran. In 2019, the vessel deployed to the Mediterranean Sea, where it participated in a series of exercises with the Russian Navy's Black Sea Fleet.
Gallery of Admiral Nakhimov Images
Admiral Nakhimov Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Admiral Nakhimov's primary role?
+The Admiral Nakhimov is a battlecruiser, designed to perform a range of tasks, including anti-surface warfare, anti-air warfare, and anti-submarine warfare.
What is the Admiral Nakhimov's top speed?
+The Admiral Nakhimov has a top speed of 32 knots (59 km/h).
What is the Admiral Nakhimov's armament?
+The Admiral Nakhimov is equipped with a range of armament, including P-700 Granit anti-ship missiles, S-300F surface-to-air missiles, AK-130 dual-purpose guns, and AK-630 close-in weapon systems.
In conclusion, the Admiral Nakhimov is a formidable warship, with a rich history and impressive specifications. Its modernization and upgrades have ensured that it remains a potent force in the Russian Navy, capable of performing a range of tasks in support of national security objectives.