Russia Launches the First Project 22350 Frigate for the Pacific Fleet

In a significant step towards bolstering its naval capabilities, Russia has launched the *Admiral of the Soviet Union Fleet Isakov*, the first Project 22350 frigate destined for the Pacific Fleet. This new warship is a fourth-generation frigate and represents a key part of Russia’s naval modernization efforts. Designed by the Severnoye Design Bureau in St. Petersburg, Project 22350 frigates are the only type of ocean-going surface combat ships developed in Russia since the Soviet Union's collapse. These versatile ships are outfitted with state-of-the-art weaponry, including the much-anticipated hypersonic 3M22 Tsirkon missile system.

A Strategic Asset for Russia’s Pacific Fleet

The Admiral Isakov is the fourth vessel in the Gorshkov-class frigates, part of a fleet designed to serve as the backbone of Russia's blue-water navy. With a displacement of around 5,400 tons, the ship boasts advanced stealth capabilities, cutting-edge sensors, and is heavily armed with a range of weapon systems, including anti-aircraft, anti-submarine, and surface-to-surface missiles.

However, the key feature of these frigates is their ability to integrate the Tsirkon hypersonic missile, which can travel at speeds up to Mach 9, making it virtually impossible for existing missile defense systems to intercept. This capability gives Russia a significant tactical advantage, particularly in the Pacific, where maritime competition is heating up with the United States and China.

A Slow and Challenging Build

The construction of the Gorshkov-class frigates has been plagued by delays, technical issues, and geopolitical obstacles. The first ship of this class, *Admiral Gorshkov*, took 12 years to complete, with subsequent vessels facing similar challenges. The *Admiral Isakov* itself has been under construction since its keel was laid in 2013 and is expected to be commissioned in 2027.

One major hurdle that impacted the production timeline was the breakdown in relations with Ukraine following Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. Ukrainian companies like Zorya-Mashproekt were critical suppliers of propulsion systems, particularly the M55R marine diesel gas-turbine units. Each of these units consists of gas turbines and diesel engines, key components for powering the frigates. The first two ships of this class received Ukrainian-made engines, but deliveries stopped for the third and fourth ships due to the deteriorating political situation. 

This left Russia scrambling to find alternatives, ultimately leading to the development of fully indigenous propulsion systems. Russian companies, such as Saturn (for gas turbines) and Zvezda (for gearboxes), took over production, but this transition significantly delayed the program.

The Move Towards Self-Sufficiency

The Admiral Golovko, the third frigate in this series, was the first to receive an entirely Russian-built propulsion system. This development marked a significant milestone for the Russian defense industry, demonstrating its ability to overcome foreign dependencies and produce key components domestically. The *Admiral Isakov* follows suit, featuring the same Russian-made engines, which include the M90FR gas turbines produced by Saturn and RO55R reduction gearboxes manufactured by Zvezda.

This self-reliance is particularly critical for Russia, as Western sanctions and the ongoing conflict with Ukraine have made it more difficult for the country to acquire advanced technologies and components from abroad. Moving forward, Russia’s ability to produce fully indigenous frigates without relying on foreign suppliers will likely be a key aspect of its broader military strategy.

What Lies Ahead

The launch of the Admiral Isakov is just one part of Russia’s broader naval ambitions. Two more frigates in the Project 22350 series, Admiral Amelko and Admiral Chichagov, are currently under construction, along with two modified versions—Admiral Yumashev and Admiral Spiridonov. These modified versions will feature more powerful armaments, including 32 UKSK vertical launch system cells capable of firing anti-ship and cruise missiles, doubling the number available on previous ships in the series.

Despite the hurdles, Russia’s determination to enhance its naval power remains evident. With the Pacific Fleet set to receive the Admiral Isakov, the nation is positioning itself to better protect its interests in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly as the area becomes a hotspot for geopolitical competition.

The launch of the Admiral Isakov is a notable milestone for Russia’s naval modernization efforts. It demonstrates the country's increasing self-sufficiency in defense production and its ambition to build a strong, blue-water navy capable of projecting power far beyond its shores. As the ship prepares for its final outfitting and trials, it symbolizes Russia's growing presence in the Pacific, where it seeks to secure its place in the evolving balance of power.