Summary
Russian spy ship Kildin caught fire off Syria, with thick smoke and distress signals revealing that its crew had lost control of the vessel.
Analysts and Western security officials say the incident highlights severe maintenance and readiness issues within Russia’s aging Mediterranean naval fleet.
Experts warn that the potential loss of the Tartus base would exacerbate these chronic problems, jeopardizing Russia’s strategic foothold in the region.
Russia’s search for alternatives in Algeria, Sudan, or Libya appears fraught with political risk and operational challenges, casting doubt on its long-term Mediterranean presence.
This specific ship probably was not have been involved in those, but one like it would be. If you’re going to break something you need to know where it is. The link I found shows 5 total converted vessels like this in the Black Sea Fleet alone (They’re listed as Project 861M)
I stated she’s not alone because she only has a single SAM battery, and low top speed/fuel reserves. Something like this needs a refueler and protection escort, even if it’s a destroyer or 2.