08.02.2010
In the nearest five years Russia's Black Sea Fleet (BSF) will be reinforced with new frigates and diesel-electric submarines, informs RIA Novosti citing BSF HQ top-ranking official.
It was previously reported by media that by 2015 Black Sea Fleet would commission at least two corvettes and three subs. The source confirmed information about number of warships, however specified that it would be frigates, ocean-going ships. According to the interviewee, corvettes which are littoral zone ships will not be purchased.
BSF operating zone is not limited by the Black Sea but extends to the Mediterranean, said the admiral. Besides, anti-piracy missions off Somalia which Russian Navy is currently facing can be only carried out by ocean-going warships.
Meanwhile, the future of Black Sea Fleet is still undefined when the agreement tied by Russia and Ukraine is expired. According to the document, Russian Black Sea Fleet based in Sevastopol should be withdrawn from Ukrainian territory by May 28, 2017.
Source: , photo: BSF warship (AFP)
