Mirka-class

Summary

Description

The Mirka class frigates, known to NATO as such, were a series of light frigates developed by the Soviet Navy in the 1960s, specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters. The Soviet Union referred to these vessels as Storozhevoi Korabl (escort ship) Project 35 for the initial variant (Mirka I) and Project 35-M for the subsequent modification (Mirka II). These ships were constructed to be similar to the Soviet Petya-class frigates, but featured a distinct machinery suite intended to improve their operational capabilities.

The design features of the Mirka class included a combined diesel and gas machinery system (CODAG) driving two shafts. This machinery was constructed with the intention of propelling the frigates at high speeds, enhanced by the use of propellers located in tunnels, which offered a similar effect to water jets. However, the machinery of the Mirka frigates encountered issues, as it was often reported to be noisy and suffered from reliability problems which degraded the ships' operational effectiveness and longevity.

In terms of construction, the Yantar shipyard located in Kaliningrad was responsible for the production of all 18 ships that comprised the Mirka class. Their service with the Soviet Navy, however, was relatively short-lived. The entire class was decommissioned over a brief period stretching from 1989 to 1992.

The operational history of the Mirka class includes at least one notable incident involving a collision with a U.S. Navy ship. The Mirka I-class frigate SKR-6 is documented as having collided with the USS Caron, illustrating the close encounters and tense naval interactions characteristic of the Cold War era.

Technical specifications