The lead vessel in a new class of patrol ships was laid down in
a ceremony at Russia
The Vasily Bykov will be the first diesel-powered Project 22160
patrol ship and is planned to feature a helicopter landing pad on its aft deck,
according to the Severnoye Design Bureau, the vessel's designer.
The 1,300-ton ship will have a range of 6,000 nautical miles and
be armed with a single 57mm cannon, heavy machine guns, air defense systems and
optional missile launchers.
“This ship is a vessel of a new generation, built according to
modular principles,” Cpt. of the First Rank Igor Dygalo said.
Dygalo explained that owing to its modular design the ship could
be re-tasked in short order to perform a range of duties.
The new class is intended for economic zone patrol,
search-and-rescue operations, anti-piracy and anti-smuggling activities,
environmental monitoring, as well as coastal defense and escort service,
according to the shipyard’s statement.
A navy spokesperson said that six ships of the class are
expected to be built by 2019.
