Kirov Class Cruisers (Project 1144 Orlan)
Kirov-class (Project 1144 Orlan) cruisers are nuclear-powered warships developed and constructed by the Soviet Union during the Cold War. These cruisers are unique in modern naval history due to their size and armament. The Kirov-class ships aimed to enhance the Soviet Navy’s influence in open seas. Designed to counter U.S. aircraft carrier groups, these ships are equipped with powerful weapon systems and long-range missiles.
Admiral Ushakov (ex-Kirov)
The Legacy of the Admiral Ushakov (ex-Kirov)
Construction of the first ship in this class, Kirov (later renamed Admiral Ushakov), began in 1974, and the ship was launched in 1977. A total of four Kirov-class ships were built. The fifth ship’s construction was canceled due to the dissolution of the USSR. Besides the high cost and complexity of their production, the entry into service and active deployment of the Kirov class coincided with the final years of the Soviet Union, making their operational management challenging. The last ship of this class, Pyotr Velikiy, was launched in 1989 but only entered service in 1998. The ships’ names were changed following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Nuclear Propulsion and Performance
Equipped with two nuclear reactors, these ships can remain at sea for extended periods and circumnavigate the globe multiple times without refueling. The nuclear propulsion system allows the ships to reach speeds of 32 knots (approximately 59 km/h).
Distinctive Design and Dimensions
The design of these cruisers is distinct from other warships. They were the first Soviet warships to have both nuclear and conventional propulsion systems. Kirov-class cruisers are approximately 252 meters in length and 28.5 meters in width. With a displacement of about 24,000 tons, they are significantly larger than other modern warships. Currently, the only active ship in service is Pyotr Velikiy. The first two ships of this class have been retired, and Admiral Nakhimov is undergoing modernization.
Strategic Importance and Modernization
Kirov-class cruisers have participated in various missions during and after the Cold War. These ships have been significant symbols representing the power of the Soviet and Russian navies. Today, two ships of this class are active and undergoing modernization. The modernization efforts aim to update the ships’ weapon systems and electronic equipment and extend their operational lifespan.
Project 1144 Orlan (Kirov) Class Ships Status
- 1. Admiral Ushakov (ex-Kirov): Commissioned on 30 December 1980, retired in 1990
- 2. Admiral Lazarev (ex-Frunze): Commissioned on 31 October 1984, retired in 1999
- 3. Admiral Nakhimov (ex-Kalinin): Commissioned on 30 December 1988, active service (undergoing modernization)
- 4. Pyotr Velikiy (ex-Yuriy Andropov): Commissioned on 3 April 1988, active service
Technical Specifications
FeatureSpecificationLength / Beam / Draft252 m / 28.5 m / 9.1 mDisplacement24,000 tonsSpeed30-32 knotsPropulsion2 CONAS systems, 2× KN-3 nuclear reactors, 2× GT3A-688 steam turbinesCrew744 personnelTechnical SystemsVoskhod MR-800 & Fregat MR-710 3D Radars, Palm Frond navigation radars
Weapon Systems
- Main Guns: 1x 2-barrel AK-130 130mm gun (2x AK-100 on Ushakov only)
- Anti-Ship Missiles: 20x P-700 Granit (SS-N-19 Shipwreck)
- Air Defence (Long Range): 12×8 S-300F missiles; Pyotr Velikiy features 48 S-300F & 48 S-300FM Fort-M (SA-N-20)
- Air Defence (Point Defense): 16×8 3K95 Kinzhal SAM, 2×20 4K33 OSA-M SAM
- CIWS: 8x AK-630 (Ushakov/Lazarev) or 6x CADS-N-1 PDMS (Nakhimov/Pyotr Velikiy)
- Anti-Submarine: 14x SS-N-14 Silex (Ushakov only), RBU-1000 & RBU-12000 launchers, 10x 533mm torpedoes