Historic Visit: Russian Project 22350 Frigate Admiral Gorshkov Arrives in Tunisia.

According to information published by Tass on October 29, 2024, the Russian Northern Fleet’s frigate, Admiral of the Fleet of the Soviet Union Gorshkov, has docked at the Port of Bizerta in the Republic of Tunisia. This visit coincides with events commemorating the centenary of the Russian Naval Squadron’s stay in Tunisia.
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Russian Navy's Project 22350 frigate Admiral Gorshkov . (Picture source: Tass)

During the frigate's port call, the Russian crew will participate in a series of events involving command representatives from the Admiral Gorshkov, alongside officials from the Russian embassy in Tunisia, the Russian Center for Science and Culture, and the Tunisian Ministry of National Defense and Navy.

The frigate's current journey began on May 17, marking an extensive deployment across several regions as part of Russia's strategic naval objectives. Since its departure, Admiral Gorshkov has covered over 23,000 nautical miles, serving its mission to project Russia’s naval presence in key operational areas of the distant maritime zone.

The frigate entered the Mediterranean on July 24, embarking on numerous port calls for diplomatic and operational purposes in the Mediterranean region. The vessel’s crew also engaged in joint exercises with other Russian naval ships, demonstrating cooperative maritime capabilities. Before arriving in Bizerta, Admiral Gorshkov visited several ports, including Havana in Cuba, La Guaira in Venezuela, and Oran in Algeria.

Tunisian Navy

The Tunisian Navy maintains a fleet that combines offshore patrol vessels, patrol boats, and smaller response boats tailored for coastal defense, search and rescue, and anti-smuggling operations. Recent developments have focused on expanding capabilities through acquisitions from the United States and domestic production.

The fleet includes multi-service offshore patrol vessels (MSOPVs), like the TNS Jugurtha built by Damen, which support extended missions and host helicopter operations, allowing Tunisia to manage high-endurance tasks in regional waters.

The recent procurement of 65-foot SAFE Archangel patrol boats, approved in 2024, enhances Tunisia’s response to coastal threats and border challenges, especially crucial given instability in neighboring regions.

These vessels are suited for nearshore operations, tackling smuggling, search and rescue, and law enforcement with advanced navigation and communication systems provided under U.S. support.

Tunisia’s emphasis on local production is evident in the domestically built frigates, with the first, Al Istiqlal, launched in 2015. These ships reinforce the Navy’s operational independence and its long-term fleet modernization strategy.