Russia To Modernize Admiral Kuznetsov Aircraft Carrier In 2018

Russia will be modernizing its aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov in 2018 following its return from counter-terrorist operation in Syria.

"We expect that in 2018, after the return of the ship from military service, the Zvezdochka shipyard will embark on repairs with modernization of the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier," Vice President of the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) Igor Ponomarev was quoted as saying by Sputnik news today.

The carrier has begun taking part in combat operations as part of the naval task force in Syria, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said Tuesday. When carrying a full load, the carrier weighs about 61,390 tons. Further, she's over 1,000 feet (305m) long overall and can carry 41 aircraft.

Kuznetsov can also carry 5 4 Su-25UTG/UBP trainer aircraft, as well as 24 Kamov Ka-27 anti-submarine helicopters.

The aircraft carrier has twelve launchers for P-700 Granit (SS-N-19 Shipwreck) anti-ship surface-to-surface missiles, the presence of this sizable anti-ship missile capability determines its typing as an aircraft-carrying cruiser.

The ship carries 24 vertical launchers for Tor missile system (SA-N-9 Gauntlet) surface-to-air missiles with 192 missiles for long-range air defense.

The ship carries eight Kashtan Close-in weapon system (CIWS) mounts for close-range air defense. Each mount has two launchers for 9M311 SAMs, twin GSh-30 30mm rotary cannons, and a radar/optronic director.

The ship also carries six AK-630 30mm rotary cannons in single mounts. Further, the ship carries the UDAV-1 ASW rocket launcher for defense against underwater attack.