Admiral Nakhimov Begins Sea Trials

Modernization of the Kirov-Class Cruiser Admiral Nakhimov

Overview of Upgrades

The Russian Navy’s Kirov-class nuclear-powered cruiser, Admiral Nakhimov, has embarked on vital sea trials as of August 18, 2025. This event marks a significant milestone following extensive modernization efforts carried out at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk. Initial work on the cruiser began in December 2013, but it has remained inoperable since 1997.

Historical Context

Originally commissioned as Kalinin in 1988, the Admiral Nakhimov has undergone a profound transformation. The extensive refurbishment includes the removal of 20 P-700 Granit (SS-N-19 ‘Shipwreck’) anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs), which have been replaced with a total of 80 UKSK vertical launching system (VLS) cells configured into ten eight-cell modules.

Enhanced Operational Flexibility

The installation of the UKSK VLS enhances the operational versatility of Admiral Nakhimov, enabling it to deploy a broader range of munitions, including:

• Kalibr Family Missiles:
  • SS-N-27 ‘Sizzler’ (anti-ship)
  • SS-N-30 ‘Sagaris’ (land-attack)
  • SS-N-31 ‘Swordfish’ (anti-submarine)
• Oniks Anti-Ship Missile (SS-N-26 ‘Strobile’)
• Tsirkon Hypersonic Missile (SS-N-33)

These upgrades afford the cruiser a more formidable strike capability in various maritime combat scenarios.

Defensive Improvements

In addition to offensive enhancements, the cruiser’s defensive systems have been significantly revitalized. The older S-300F (SA-N-6 ‘Grumble’) long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system has been supplanted either by a navalized variant of the S-300PMU1 (SA-N-20) or the more advanced S-400 (SA-21 ‘Growler’).

While the exact configuration of the defensive missile system is not definitively established, new fire-control radars have been installed at both fore and aft locations, replacing the antiquated Top Dome systems. Over time, these modifications will provide additional insights into the cruiser’s defensive capabilities.

Strategic Implications

The modernization of Admiral Nakhimov represents a broader strategic shift within the Russian Navy, focusing on enhancing both offensive and defensive operational capabilities. With an emphasis on advanced technology and weaponry, this revitalization of one of Russia’s key naval assets serves to bolster its maritime power and deterrence posture in the region.

The successful completion of these trials will be an important indicator of the Russian Navy’s readiness and tactical evolution in the increasingly competitive global naval landscape.