03.11.2010
Text:
Photo: Igor Kasatonov.
"Having modern arms in inventory, one can fire at any target from the Black Sea; for instance, against objects in the Persian Gulf or the Mediterranean Sea. Apparently, an opinion that the Black Sea is a closed sea does not exist any more. So, there are lots of interesting perspectives", said Black Se Fleet (BSF) ex-commander.
The admiral applauded to prolongation of BSF till 2042. "This 50-year long project was supported by the whole population of Sevastopol, Crimea, and of course by good will of then-Ukrainian leadership [1992] and the current one. Now there are plenty of positive trends. Hopefully, the words would turn into practical deeds. We're going to co-operate with Ukraine and go through difficulties", added Kasatonov.
Being involved in Black Sea Fleet matters, the admiral emphasized the significance of instilling "the hope that Russia's Black Sea Fleet will exist and be reinforced with new warships" into hearts of BSF officers and Sevastopol inhabitants.
Kasatonov reminded that Project 22350 lead frigate
Admiral Flota Sovetskogo Soyuza Gorshkov was launched on Oct 29 at
Severnaya Verf shipyard (St. Petersburg); the frigate will join Northern Fleet (NF) Kola all-arms flotilla. "Commander of Kola flotilla brought Gorshkov's CO and his chief mate to the launching ceremony. That chief mate is future CO of analogous frigate
Admiral Flota Kasatonov which was laid down in 2009 and will be posted to Black Sea Fleet. Besides, other good ships like Project 1135.6 will be also stationed here in the nearest two or three years", added the admiral.
Russian defense minister Anatoly Serdiukov said at CIS Defense Ministerial on Oct 20 that Russia and Ukraine were about to sign an agreement providing reinforcement of Black Sea Fleet. In exchange, Russia will inform Ukraine of BSF manpower, weapons, and strength.
