Russian Missile Cruiser varyag
Early in 2010, numerous warships from various Pacific Rim nations paid a courtesy visit to San Francisco, Calif. Among the more notable visitors, was the Russian Federation “Slava” class Guided Missile Cruiser Varyag, of Russian Pacific Fleet.
At the time of my visit to the Varyag, the crew was dressed in parade uniforms with the ships’ band preparing to present an Honor Guard for President Medvedev whom was to arrive shortly for an inspection tour.
Designed as a failsafe battle cruiser
The “Slava” class, of which there were three or possibly fourth unit completed, were Guided Missile cruisers designed as a failsafe battle cruiser should the forthcoming “Kirov” class guided missile cruisers prove to be a failure.
The Varyags’ main armament consisted of eight twin SS-N-12 “Sandbox” Anti-ship missiles carrying a 1000 kg warhead to a range of 550 kilometers.
For air defense, Varyag is equipped with a Vertical Launch System for the SA-N-6 surface to air missile system that are recessed into the deck directly aft of the funnels and cranes. Varyags’ air defense is also enhanced by two twin launchers for the SA-N-4 surface to air missiles.
For additional defense the ship is equipped with a dual purpose 130 mm fully automated gun turret and also several 30 mm Gatling type rotary cannons.
For Anti-Submarine Warfare Varyag is armed with two of the RBU-6000 anti-submarine rocket launcher systems and two five tube launchers for 21 inch torpedoes which are hidden behind doors in the hull abreast the ships’ helicopter hangar.
Finally, for additional ASW and for midrange guidance of the SS-N-12 missiles, Varyag is equipped with the Kamov Ka-27 “Helix” helicopter or by now may be equipped with the Kamov Ka-31 helicopter. (Visit the Russian Cruiser's Gallery)
