At the end of December, Admiralty Shipyards celebrated the launch of the second new Project 23550 polar patrol ship being built for the Russian Navy. Named Nikolai Zubov, it was floated during a ceremony held on December 25.

Given the increasing geostrategic importance of polar regions, with the potential opening of new trade routes created by the effects of climate change, various nations are advancing naval construction programs focused on surface vessels capable of operating under extreme conditions.

In Russia’s case, the country has commissioned the construction of a new class of polar patrol ships to equip both the Russian Navy and the Border Guard’s Coast Guard Service. Currently under construction at Admiralty Shipyards, these vessels bear the official designation of Project 23550.

With a displacement of approximately 9,000 tons, the new series of patrol ships consists of four units, the first two of which are being built for the Russian Navy. Regarding these vessels, the shipyard stated that the first patrol ship, Ivan Papanin, which was launched in 2019, is currently undergoing sea trials ahead of its planned delivery and commissioning later in 2025.

Meanwhile, the recently launched Nikolai Zubov will undergo final outfitting work on its superstructure in preparation for the start of sea trials and system testing in the coming months.

Marking this new milestone for Project 23550, the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, Admiral Aleksandr Moiseyev, stated: “Another modern and highly technological combat unit of the Navy is entering the final stage of construction. The ships of this project will form the backbone of operational groups in the Arctic zone, significantly enhancing the combat potential and capabilities of the Northern Fleet. These vessels will enable the Russian Federation to strengthen its presence in the remote Arctic regions, demonstrating to potential adversaries our firm and unwavering commitment to defending our national interests and strategic zones in the global ocean. Every ship built at Admiralty Shipyards strengthens Russia’s status as a great maritime and Arctic power.”

From Admiralty Shipyards, Acting General Director Andrei Bystrov said: “This is the second patrol ship for the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation. I would like to point out that the Nikolai Zubov is the fourth vessel we have prepared for launch in the past four months. Previously, we launched two fishing trawlers and a submarine. This kind of work is a source of pride, and it should be.”

Finally, regarding the capabilities of this class of polar patrol ships, it was noted that they are equipped with Kalibr cruise missile launch systems, complemented by a 76.2mm main gun and a CIWS-type AK-630M 30mm close-in weapon system.

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