The Russian Ministry of Defense reported that an ammunition detonation occurred after a fire started aboard the Moscow missile cruiser, the flagship of the Black Sea Fleet. The incident reportedly caused extensive damage to the vessel and led to the evacuation of the entire crew. The cause of the fire has not been disclosed by officials. [TASS]
The Moskva, the lead ship of Project 1164 Atlant, is a guard missile cruiser that once carried the name of its predecessor, the decommissioned 1123 anti-submarine cruiser Moskva. This vessel has played a central role in the Black Sea Fleet and has been involved in numerous naval operations and strategic exercises over the years. In the late 2000s and early 2010s, it participated in Mediterranean naval activities and large-scale command and staff exercises such as Vostok-2010, Kavkaz-2012, and the Russian-Chinese Friendship Bridge 2015 maneuvers. These events positioned the Moskva as a key platform within Russia’s maritime capabilities. [TASS]
In a nod to its long service and perceived value within the fleet, the ship received recognition from the highest level of leadership. By presidential decree on May 16, 2016, the Moskva was awarded the Order of Nakhimov for exemplary performance in combat training, leadership, and dedication shown by the crew in carrying out its missions. The award underscored the vessel’s role in maintaining state security and the readiness of the personnel to execute combat missions. [TASS]