Pacific Fleet's task unit returned from Singapore

02.12.2009
Pacific Fleet's task unit consisting of PF flagship Guard missile cruiser Varyag, rescue tug Fotiy Krylov and ocean-going tanker Pechenga returned from Singapore to Vladivostok on Dec 2.

Among attendants of the meeting ceremony at quay 33 of Vladivostok port were Vice Admiral Konstantin Sidenko, Pacific Fleet Commander, the fleet's officials, representatives of city and regional administration, relatives of the crews and military brass band. During solemn greeting the ship commanders were traditionally presented with three piglet roasts; distinguished crewmembers were awarded with certificates of honor and gifts. Five sailors of Varyag got memorable signs "70 years of Primorsky Krai"; twenty five mariners won the Governor's Prize.

Return cruise from Singapore has passed successfully, systems and mechanisms of the ships worked normally, sailors are in high spirits, said representative of PF Information and Public Relations Service.

During the cruise there were numerous combat drills; mariners practiced their sailing skills in severe conditions of fall-winter period, mentioned the cruise commander Rear Admiral Sergei Avakiants, Primorsk Flotilla Commander.

Russian ships approached foreign coast on October 27, paid official visit to Singapore on November 11 and laid a course for Vladivostok on November 17.

Main objectives of the distant cruise were demonstration of Russian naval flag and strengthening relations between the two countries.

Apart from the crew of cruiser Varyag headed by Capt 1 rank Eduard Moskalenko, there were marines, air group, cadets of Pacific Naval Institute named after S.O. Makarov and representatives of Vladivostok Eparchy on board the ship. Churchmen had conducted Orthodox ceremonials at the sea and presented ornaments to Orthodox Church in Singapore.

During the call President of Russia Dmitry Medvedev visited the cruiser. He familiarized himself with the ship's Museum of Battle Fame and attended tea party with the crew.

In the course of 37-day cruise Pacific Fleet ships covered about 6,500 marine miles.

Source: RusNavy.com, photo: cruiser Varyag (ru.wikipedia.org)