Counting Russia's Naval Assets in the Black Sea: Current Status and Updates
As of the latest reports, the Russian Navy in the Black Sea is undergoing significant changes, with a notable reduction in combat-ready ships and a few losses to its assets. This article provides an updated overview of Russia's naval presence in the region, including the number of ships, types of vessels, and recent changes.
Combat-Ready Ships
Russia currently fields about 4 frigates in the Black Sea, with one Krivak class and three Admiral Grigorovich class. As of May 6, it has been reported that the number of combat-ready Admiral Grigorovich class frigates has decreased by one due to one being damaged by Ukrainian forces. Additionally, Russia has approximately 6 landing craft capable of transporting 10 to 15 tanks, 10–15 other vehicles, and 400 troops each. However, one or two of these landing craft have been damaged by the Ukrainians, and one was lost to them. Originally, Russia had about 7 landing craft.
Smaller Vessels and Patrol Boats
Russia also operates around 50 small vessels, including patrol boats, coastal defense anti-submarine warfare vessels, and supply vessels. These smaller craft have limited usefulness against Ukraine, and it is reported that one patrol boat has been damaged. Two additional patrol boats have been lost since the initial report, bringing the total to 48. Submarines, though present, are considered to have zero usefulness in the conflict, with Russia reportedly having around 6 submarines.
Current Operational Status
Several Russian naval assets, including the flagship, are considered to be 'in' the Black Sea, while others are 'on' the Black Sea, which means they are present in the region. The Black Sea Fleet typically operates 10 frigates, corvettes, six diesel-electric submarines, and 10 or 11 amphibious ships and boats. However, recent events have significantly altered this status.
Recent Incidents and Losses
One of the most significant recent losses is the Moskva, a large missile cruiser and a flagship of the Black Sea Fleet. On April 19, 2022, the Moskva sank in the Black Sea after suffering explosions and fire, reportedly caused by the impacts of two Ukrainian Neptune missiles. This incident may be a "broken arrow" event, suggesting a possible nuclear warhead mishap on the ocean floor. Photos and satellite radar imagery indicate that smaller boats remained alongside and presumably rescued some of the crew.
Other notable losses include the Tapir class landing ship BDK-65 Saratov, which was destroyed by the Ukrainians, and the Ropucha class landing ship and the Raptor class patrol boat, which were damaged by the same forces.
These updates highlight the evolving nature of the naval conflict in the Black Sea, with Russia experiencing a notable decline in its combat-ready naval assets and facing significant losses in recent operations.