Chinese experts believe that the Russian frigate Admiral Gorshkov, carrying Zircon hypersonic missiles and Kalibr cruise missiles, can join the Russian Black Sea Fleet after exercises with China and South Africa. The newspaper writes about it South China Morning Post.
The publication cites the opinion of Song Zhongping, a former instructor of the People’s Liberation Army of China (PLA), who described the exercises at a distance of 16,000 km from Russia as a serious test of the frigate’s seaworthiness and ability to cover long distances.
“It is possible that the Zircon missile system on the frigate will be used to support the Black Sea Fleet, whose combat capability was weakened after the death of the flagship Moskva missile cruiser,” said the expert.
Previously reportedThe opening ceremony of the Russian, South African and Chinese tripartite naval exercises was held in Richards Bay.
The Russian Navy is represented by the Admiral Gorshkov frigate, which made the first long-range expedition with Zircon hypersonic missiles, and the medium sea tanker Kama of the Northern Fleet.
The Chinese side sent the Rizhao frigate, the Huainan destroyer and the Kekesilihu escort ship to the exercises. The Republic of South Africa is represented by the frigate Mendy. The Brazilian Navy participated in the exercise as an observer.