Kresta I & II-class

Summary

Description

The Kresta II-class cruisers, originally designated as Project 1134A Berkut A by the Soviet Union, played a significant role as guided missile cruisers in the Soviet Navy's arsenal, with a classification that leaned towards large anti-submarine warfare ships. Despite being listed by NATO as "cruisers" because of their potent Metel (SS-N-14 Silex) anti-ship missile system, these ships also possessed capabilities against surface vessels.

Developed as an anti-submarine derivative of the earlier Kresta I class, the Kresta II-class incorporated significant advancements in weaponry and technology. Early plans for the first three ships featured the SS-N-9 anti-ship missile, but a shift in Soviet naval doctrine towards prioritizing anti-submarine warfare led to changes in the ship's armaments. Equipped with cutting-edge anti-submarine missiles (SS-N-14) and improved SA-N-3 surface-to-air missiles from two twin launchers, these cruisers were bettered prepared for their primary mission. They also featured an enhanced sonar system, which necessitated a design change resulting in a more pronounced rake of the bow. For defense against missile threats, four 30mm CIWS guns were installed. The cruisers retained the propulsion system of their predecessors, the Kresta I-class, with two TV-12 steam turbines powered by high-pressure boilers.

In terms of armament, the primary function as anti-submarine warfare cruisers was supported by two quadruple launchers for the SS-N-14 missiles, two sets of RBU 6000 and RBU 1000 rocket launchers, and assistance from the embarked Kamov Ka-25 helicopter. They were also armed against air threats with four 57mm L/80 DP guns, four 30mm AK-630 CIWS mountings, and the 48 SA-N-3 missiles. Additionally, the ships carried two quintuple 533mm torpedo tube mountings for a dual role in combat.

The Kresta II-class was equipped with an array of sensors including MR600 air search radar, MR-310 Angara Don, and Volga navigational radars. For anti-submarine warfare, they used MG-322 hull-mounted sonar and for fire control, various systems were installed like Grom SA-N-1, MR103 AK725, and Drakon RP33. Upgrades and support systems were also in place, although the initial four ships lacked the MR-123 Vympel fire control radar for their AK-630s.

The entire class was built by the Zhdanov Shipyard in Leningrad, and they served as an integral part of Soviet maritime strategy during their operational history. The Kresta II-class exhibited the Soviet Union's dedication to naval innovation, especially concerning anti-submarine warfare capabilities during the Cold War period.

Technical specifications