Russia Launches New Frigate Admiral Isakov: A Strategic Addition to Naval Power
The United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) announced the launch of the new Russian frigate, Admiral Isakov, at the Severnaya Verf shipyard in St. Petersburg. This latest addition to the Project 22350 series honors Hero of the Soviet Union Ivan Isakov, who played a pivotal role during the Great Patriotic War. With the frigate's launch, Russia continues to enhance its naval capabilities, particularly in the Pacific Fleet, where it is expected to be operational by 2027.
The Admiral Isakov is the fourth ship to be constructed under Project 22350, which is renowned for its advanced combat characteristics and versatility. According to Admiral Alexander Moiseyev, Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, these frigates are equipped with modern hypersonic weapons, making them formidable assets in both near and distant sea operations. He emphasized that the frigates will significantly bolster the strike groups of the Northern and Pacific Fleets, providing a strategic advantage in maritime defense.
Project 22350: Modernization and Strategic Capabilities
Project 22350 has been in development since the early 2000s, with the lead ship, Admiral Gorshkov, joining the fleet in 2018. The series aims to produce a total of ten frigates, with several currently under construction. These ships are designed for a variety of missions, including anti-submarine warfare, surface ship destruction, and air defense. Notably, they incorporate stealth technology and advanced radar systems, enhancing their operational effectiveness.
The frigates' armament includes hypersonic Zircon missiles, capable of evading interception due to their speed. This capability, along with the potential for Kalibr cruise missiles and anti-submarine helicopters, positions the Project 22350 frigates as a significant force in modern naval warfare. Experts believe that increasing the production rate of these ships is essential for maintaining the Russian Navy's readiness in both near and far sea zones.
