01.11.2011
Text:
Photo: Harbor tug
RB-39. Caspian Flotilla Information Support Group
Project 705B was developed by JSC
Vympel Design Bureau (Nizhny Novgorod). First ship of this project (serial number 001) harbor tug
RB-39 was launched by Astrakhan shipwrights in Apr 2010. The ship had passed trials in July 2010. On Nov 15 – 288th anniversary of Caspian Flotilla's foundation – ensign of Russian Navy's auxiliary fleet was triumphantly hoisted on
RB-39, and the tug joined Caspian Flotilla.
Naval experts, designers and shipbuilders conducted extended joint test of the vessel in summer 2010; in particular, they checked the tug's towage capability. She proved performance characteristics in full. At present, Astrakhan branch of JSC
Zvezdochka Ship Repair Center builds third tug under this project for Russian defense ministry. The vessel is 50% completed; estimated delivery term is 2012.
Just like her predecessor
RB-39, harbor tug
RB-10 will join Caspian Flotilla and be stationed in Astrakhan port. The flag-hoisting ceremony is also scheduled on Nov 15, the Caspian Flotilla Day. Currently, the tug is moored at the shipyard and will move to permanent basing site in the next week.
Basic characteristics of Project 705B harbor tug:
Full-load displacement – about 310 tons
Dimensions: length – 26.9 meters, beam – 8.7 meters, draft – 2.7 meters
Full speed – 12 knots
Fuel range – 700 miles
Endurance – 5 days
Propulsion plant: 2 x 770-shp diesels, 2 x 100-kW diesel generators
Crew – 8 men
