The Return of Admiral Makarov: Russia's Black Sea Fleet flagship resurfaces
The Russian frigate Admiral Makarov, the flagship of the Black Sea Fleet, has returned to service, equipped with Kalibr missiles. Its reappearance in Novorossiysk marks a significant development after its long absence following damage caused by a Ukrainian drone strike in October 2022. This event underscores ongoing challenges for Russia’s naval forces in the contested Black Sea region.
From Moskva to Makarov: A Turbulent Legacy
The sinking of the cruiser Moskva in April 2022 was a major blow to the prestige of Russia's surface fleet. Following the loss of the fleet’s flagship, Admiral Makarov assumed the role. However, its tenure as flagship has been fraught with challenges. In October 2022, the frigate sustained damage in Sevastopol from a Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) strike. This attack highlighted the vulnerability of Russian naval assets to evolving threats, prompting Makarov’s withdrawal for extensive repairs.
The Arsenal of Admiral Makarov
Admiral Makarov boasts a comprehensive array of weaponry. The frigate is armed with 24 9M317M surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), derived from the Buk-M2 ground-based system. These medium-range missiles are housed in 12 dual-tube launchers, integrated with advanced radar systems for target acquisition and fire control. Additional defensive systems include the modern AK-630 close-in weapon system (CIWS) and the A-190 naval gun. However, questions remain about its effectiveness against drones, given persistent issues faced by Russian forces in detecting and neutralizing UAV threats.
The frigate's anti-submarine capabilities are notable, with a rocket launcher for RBU-6000 anti-submarine missiles and two twin 533mm torpedo tubes. For close-range air defense, Makarov is equipped with eight Igla-S SAM launchers. Despite its extensive arsenal, Admiral Makarov’s displacement of 4,000 tons contrasts sharply with Western frigates, such as the 8,000-ton HMS Glasgow of the UK’s Type 26 class, illustrating differing naval design philosophies.
Kalibr Missiles: The Frigate’s Primary Threat
The centerpiece of Admiral Makarov’s offensive capability is its Kalibr cruise missiles, housed in two UKSK vertical launch systems. These missiles come in two primary variants:
- 3M54T: A versatile missile with a range of 660 km, capable of striking surface ships, submarines, and land targets. Its subsonic cruise speed of 0.8 Mach allows for maneuverability during flight.
- 3M14T: Designed for long-range strikes, this variant boasts a range of 2,500 km and a heavier warhead, making it a significant threat to land-based infrastructure.
Kalibr missiles have been a mainstay of Russia’s military operations, including strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. Despite their prominence, these missiles have faced reliability issues. Notably, a Kalibr missile crashed in Moldova in October 2022, raising concerns about their accuracy and dependability.
A Fleet Under Siege
Admiral Makarov’s reappearance in Novorossiysk comes as the Black Sea Fleet faces mounting challenges. Following repeated attacks on Sevastopol, much of the fleet has relocated to Novorossiysk in an attempt to evade Ukrainian long-range weaponry, including ATACMS, Storm Shadow, and SCALP-EG missiles. Despite these precautions, security concerns persist. Reports indicate extensive defensive measures at Novorossiysk, including machine gun emplacements along the coast.
Polish sources have reported the loading of ammunition onto Admiral Makarov, suggesting preparations for renewed operations. However, the Black Sea Fleet has remained largely inactive in recent months, possibly reflecting both strategic constraints and operational vulnerabilities.
Strategic Implications
The return of Admiral Makarov signals Russia's intent to maintain a naval presence in the Black Sea despite significant setbacks. Its arsenal, particularly the Kalibr missiles, poses a continued threat to regional stability. However, questions about the frigate’s survivability against modern threats persist. The vulnerability of Russian naval assets to drones and precision-guided missiles highlights a broader challenge for Moscow’s military strategy.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the role of Admiral Makarov and the Black Sea Fleet remains critical yet precarious. Whether this frigate can effectively project power or merely survive in a contested maritime domain will shape the narrative of naval warfare in the region.
