The combat readiness of the Baltic Fleet is being enhanced across all operational parameters, demonstrating its capability to operate effectively both in the Baltic Sea and during distant deployments. Nikolai Patrushev, the assistant to the Russian president and chairman of the Marine Board, emphasized that the fleet is focussing on improving its skills to counter underwater sabotage units and is conducting extensive exercises aimed at bolstering its preparedness against drone and unmanned craft attacks. These drills are refining algorithms for detecting, tracking, and neutralizing small surface targets. Furthermore, the fleet is being upgraded with advanced vessels, including small missile ships equipped with the naval variant of the Pantsir short-range air defense system, alongside new frigates, corvettes, mine countermeasure ships, hydrographic vessels, and support craft. The comprehensive development of naval infrastructure also supports these advancements. This strategic enhancement of the Baltic Fleet not only strengthens Russia’s military capabilities in the region but also reinforces national sovereignty and security interests in a critical maritime area.
