Moscow: Russia is preparing a new missile boat equipped with 20 caliber cruise missiles. It is believed that Russia is planning to attack Ukrainian targets through missile boats. The new vessel will be an update of the multipurpose Buyan-class corvette. These are usually equipped with state-of-the-art artillery as well as rocket and missile systems. Renat Mistakhov, director general of the AK Bars Shipbuilding Corporation, told the state-owned Zvezda news outlet that Russian shipbuilders have introduced a model of a ship of the Sarsar Project, which is capable of carrying 20 Caliber cruise missiles.
This missile boat will be prepared soon
“The construction of this missile boat will be completed in the next few years. The new vessel is an extension of Project 21631, the Bolshoy Buyan (Buyan-M missile corvette),” Mistakhov said. He also said that the longer variant of the ship will have a displacement capacity of 1,500 tonnes. According to Mistakhov, in addition to Caliber missiles, the new warship will be equipped with updated air defense systems, artillery guns and missile systems.
Buyan-M powerful battleship
Buyan-M is a ship with a displacement of 950 tons. The ship is 74 meters (243 ft) long and has a maximum speed of 45 kilometers per hour (28 mph). In addition to other weapons, the ship has eight vertical launch tubes housing 3K14 caliber missiles. The Buyan-M was previously used to attack Islamic State militants in Syria.
India destroyed Karachi with Russian missile boat
India had destroyed Pakistan’s Karachi port in the 1971 war with missile boats purchased from Russia. These missile boats were purchased by India to protect its maritime borders, but later it was decided to use them for attack. This attack was so effective that Admiral Gorshkov, the then Naval Chief of Russia at that time, could not believe his eyes. He himself came to India to congratulate the Indian Navy on this attack and also met the Indian sailors involved in the attack.
Time.news Interview: The Implications of Russia’s New Missile Boat
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today. We have with us Dr. Alexei Petrov, a military analyst specializing in naval warfare. Dr. Petrov, recent reports from Moscow indicate that Russia is preparing to launch a new missile boat equipped with 20 caliber cruise missiles, purportedly aimed at Ukrainian targets. What can you tell us about the significance of this development?
Dr. Alexei Petrov: Thank you for having me. The development of this new missile boat is indeed significant, particularly as it marks an evolution in Russia’s naval capabilities. The Buyan-class corvette, which this new vessel is based on, is already known for its effectiveness in both offensive and defensive operations. Adding enhanced missile capabilities could shift the balance of power in specific maritime confrontations.
Interviewer: You mentioned the Buyan-class corvette. Can you elaborate on its current capabilities and how this new missile boat might differ?
Dr. Petrov: Certainly. The Buyan-class corvettes are multipurpose vessels that include modern artillery, as well as rocket and missile systems designed for both anti-ship and land-attack roles. They are fast, maneuverable, and can operate in shallow waters, making them versatile for coastal operations. The new missile boat is expected to further integrate advanced technologies and possibly better targeting systems, allowing for more precision in strikes against land targets, particularly in regions like Ukraine.
Interviewer: Given this enhancement, what do you believe Russia’s strategic objectives are with this missile boat?
Dr. Petrov: The primary objective seems to be to exert pressure on Ukraine through maritime force projection. By deploying missile boats capable of launching strikes from the safety of the sea, Russia can engage targets with greater reach while minimizing risk to its naval forces. Additionally, this could serve as a deterrent to NATO and other regional actors, demonstrating Russia’s continued military modernization and willingness to utilize it.
Interviewer: In light of this situation, how should Ukraine respond to the potential threat posed by these new capabilities?
Dr. Petrov: Ukraine needs to enhance its surveillance and early warning systems to monitor naval movements while investing in anti-ship defenses. Collaborating with allies to improve intelligence sharing will also be crucial. Moreover, enhancing their own naval capabilities through international partnerships could level the playing field and potentially counteract the advantages posed by these new Russian vessels.
Interviewer: Speaking of international partnerships, how do you think NATO and other allies are likely to respond to these developments?
Dr. Petrov: NATO is expected to increase its patrols and surveillance in the Black Sea region. The alliance has consistently shown its commitment to countering Russian aggression, and the introduction of this missile boat will likely prompt discussions about reinforcing naval presence and support for Ukraine. Additionally, we may see increased military aid, including anti-ship weapons for Ukraine.
Interviewer: Lastly, Dr. Petrov, what broader implications do you see for regional stability with the introduction of these missile boats?
Dr. Petrov: The introduction of more capable missile boats exacerbates tensions in the already volatile region. It may lead to an arms race, where neighboring countries feel compelled to up their own military capabilities. Furthermore, incidents at sea could become more frequent as both sides engage in aggressive posturing, potentially leading to unintended escalations. while naval assets are essential for national defense, they also carry the risk of escalation in conflicts.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Petrov, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. It’s clear that the implications of Russia’s new missile boat go far beyond the maritime domain and could significantly impact regional dynamics.
Dr. Petrov: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial that we continue to monitor these developments closely.