Russia's Project 22160 patrol ships to receive upgraded air defense and missile systems.

According to information published by Tass on August 29, 2024, the patrol ships of Project 22160, which include four vessels currently serving in the Black Sea Fleet and two more under construction, are set for a comprehensive modernization. This plan involves the installation of advanced air defense systems and missile complexes.
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Artist rendering of the Project 22160 patrol ship. (Picture source: Severnoye)

There are indications that the production series for these patrol ships might undergo changes. The base design of these ships is modular, initially intended for operations primarily in peacetime. However, this modularity allows for the integration of new equipment and weaponry, which may lead to significant updates in their construction.

Historically, these ships were built to counter piracy, particularly to ensure the safety of navigation and escort operations off the coast of Africa without the need to deploy larger vessels. This was their primary role under international maritime security operations.

About the Project 22160 patrol ships

Each ship in the class is approximately 94 meters long with a displacement of about 1,600 to 1,800 tons, and they are powered by a combined diesel and gas propulsion system (CODAG), providing an operational range of 6,000 nautical miles and a top speed of 30 knots. The vessels have a crew capacity of around 40 personnel, although they can accommodate up to 80 if necessary.

Armament on Project 22160 ships includes a 76-mm dual-purpose naval gun, two 14.5-mm heavy machine guns, and a range of other defensive systems, including grenade launchers and an optional Kalibr missile system. The vessels also feature a helicopter deck and hangar for operating a Ka-27.

Six ships of this class have been ordered, with the first ship, Vasily Bykov, joining the Russian Navy in late 2018. Subsequent ships, including Dmitry Rogachev and Pavel Derzhavin, were commissioned in the following years. However, the construction rate has been relatively slow, with ongoing work on the remaining ships, including Sergey Kotov, Viktor Veliky, and Nikolay Sipyagin.

In recent years, Project 22160 ships have been involved in various incidents, including reported attacks by Ukrainian forces using unmanned surface vehicles and missile systems. These events have resulted in damage to some vessels, such as the Sergey Kotov, which was reportedly sunk in March 2024 after being struck by maritime drones while off the coast of Crimea.