Russian Carrier Strike Group Prepares For Cruise

30.09.2011 Northern Fleet (NF) aircraft-carrying cruiser Admiral Kuznetsov heading the NF task force in Nov 2011 will be deployed in the Mediterranean Sea and Northeast Atlantic, reported ITAR-TASS referring to Russian Navy Main HQ.

"Admiral Kuznetsov will head for the Barents Sea on Nov 13 and anchor to take air wing on board - 8 fighters Su-33, several MiG-29K, and two ASW helicopters Ka-27PL. Through one week the air wing will practice takeoff and landing techniques on board the carrier. On Nov 19 Admiral Kuznetsov will start a 3-month cruise to the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic. NF large ASW ship Admiral Chabanenko will be among other ships of carrier group to provide coverage and combat support", said the interviewee.

At present, the list of call ports is being drawn with regard to recent events at the Middle East and North Africa. Participation of Russian warships in exercises jointly with regional navies is being considered as well, said the spokesman for Navy Main HQ.