Russian ships begin long-range deployment in Asia-Pacific

Three vessels from Russia’s Pacific Fleet have departed Vladivostok for a long-range deployment in the Asia-Pacific region, according to the fleet’s press service.

The group includes the frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov, the large anti-submarine warfare ship Admiral Tributs, and the tanker Pechenga. After leaving Vladivostok, the vessels formed a cruising formation and headed toward the Sangar Strait, which connects the Sea of Japan with the Pacific Ocean between Japan’s main islands of Honshu and Hokkaido, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media. 

Ka-27 naval helicopters are deployed aboard the warships, the Pacific Fleet said. Before departure, the crews conducted exercises focused on countering airborne threats and unmanned surface vessels.

During their deployment, the ships are expected to take part in several naval exercises and make port calls in what the Pacific Fleet described as friendly countries. The fleet did not provide further details on the locations or timing of the planned exercises and visits.

The deployment comes amid continued Russian naval activity in the Asia-Pacific region. On August 21, Marshal Shaposhnikov and Admiral Tributs conducted exercises in the Sea of Japan involving the search for and simulated destruction of an underwater target.

By Sabina Mammadli