Russia Agrees To Complete Floating Base In Nikolayev, Ukraine

09.11.2011 Russian military experts consider it is possible to complete submarine repair floating base at Chernomorsky Shipyard (Nikolayev, Ukraine). That was said by local governor Nikolai Kruglov on TV show, reports ZN.ua.

In particular, the governor mentioned recent talks with Russian military and JSC United Shipbuilding Corporation.

"It may be said that the things got rolling. The cruiser [former Ukraina] also seems to be sold, and we can receive orders for ship repair. In this situation we should reasonably manage available capacities of Chernomorsky shipyard. According to its owner Vadim Novinsky, Russia has serious plans to complete a submarine repair base which has been staying idle at Chernomorsky shipyard for over 20 years", Kruglov said.

Laid down in 1990, Project 2020 floating maintenance base was designed for recharging of submarine nuclear reactors.

After launching, the works on the floating base were suspended due to lack of financing and it was mothballed. Still non-completed, the floating base is moored at the shipyard's outfitting quay.

Recall that Sevastopol authorities earlier asked Ukrainian government to arrange with Russia about repair of Black Sea Fleet ships at Sevmorzavod plant. "For Russia, this is economically sound from the viewpoint of prime cost but not policy", said Sevastopol mayor Yury Doinikov.

Last time a Black Sea Fleet ship was repaired at Sevmorzavod in 2003. That was missile cruiser Moskva. But through recent 3 years, six Russian warships had passed overhaul in Bulgaria which is the NATO member.

Editor's remark

According to available information, technical condition of Project 2020 floating maintenance base (serial number 698) was verified by a special board including representatives of design bureau developed the project. "The hull is in good technical condition, and it is quite possible to complete her", told a source in the design bureau to Central Navy Portal. Presently, Russian Navy operates three Project 2020 floating bases including two at Northern Fleet, and one – at Pacific Fleet.

Main characteristics of Project 2020 floating maintenance base

Displacement: standard – 9,700 tons, full – 13,900 tons
Dimensions: length – 137.8 meters, beam – 21.2 meters, draft – 6.8 meters
Powerplant: 4 x 1,500 kW diesel generators, 1 x 2,700-shp electric motor PG-112-1
Full speed – 12 knots
Range – 13,000 miles (at 10 knots)
Endurance – 45 days
Crew – 260 men