During this week, Russian media have reported that the Russian Navy’s nuclear-powered missile cruiser Admiral Nakhimov is preparing to begin its sea trials in 2025, aiming to put an end to a long overhaul process that began in 1999. The announcement comes as the second reactor of the heavy cruiser has been launched, which will allow it to operate in all available modes once fully certified.
Quoting anonymous sources from the Russian military-industrial complex: “Last Sunday, the second nuclear reactor on the Admiral Nakhimov cruiser was started (…) The shipyard trials of the cruiser, with its launch into the sea, will begin in the summer of 2025.”
Regarding the key aspects of the program, which has frequently exceeded its proposed deadlines, it should be noted that Admiral Nakhimov has been awaiting its nuclear reactors since 2013 to progress toward its return to service. Additionally, according to reports from Russia, the Navy has sought to integrate a wide array of new weapon systems into the vessel, significantly increasing its firepower. Among the most notable additions are the potential deployment of Kalibr-NK and/or Onyx cruise missiles, as well as Fort-M and Pantsyr-M air defense systems.
It is also worth recalling, in line with the project’s extended timeline and associated difficulties, that the Russian Navy has already faced significant doubts when attempting similar work on Admiral Nakhimov‘s sister ship, the nuclear cruiser Pyotr Velikiy. As reported in July 2023, serious concerns arose regarding the costs associated with the project, along with frequent delays affecting the ship during its time at the Sevmash plant (part of the United Shipbuilding Corporation), leading to considerations of permanently decommissioning the vessel, which was originally launched in 1986.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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