The Russian naval command is proceeding with a major modernization plan that will reshape the country’s surface and strategic capabilities. In a move reported by TASS, citing undisclosed sources, the heavy nuclear missile cruiser Peter the Great is slated for decommissioning following the completion of upgrades to the cruiser Admiral Nakhimov. The decision signals a broader effort to optimize the fleet’s most powerful assets while ensuring continuity of operational readiness across the Northern and Pacific fleets.
Officials noted that a formal decision has been reached to retire Peter the Great once Admiral Nakhimov is restored to full duty. The timetable appears linked to Admiral Nakhimov’s return to service, suggesting a carefully coordinated transfer of responsibilities and crew between the vessels to maintain naval effectiveness during the transition.
According to sources familiar with the plan, a substantial portion of Peter the Great’s crew relocated to Admiral Nakhimov in anticipation of the cruiser’s transfer. Those remaining aboard ensured the life-support and defensive systems remained viable, underscoring the importance of preserving the ship’s readiness until the handover is completed. The move reflects standard naval practice in which manning changes accompany major maintenance cycles to minimize downtime.
On June 13, officials indicated that Admiral Nakhimov is expected to regain full combat power for the Russian Navy by the end of 2024. Sea trials were announced to begin in September after the vessel undergoes comprehensive repair and modernization at Sevmash in Severodvinsk, a shipyard renowned for its submarine and surface warship programs. The anticipated return to sea operations marks a critical milestone in maintaining Russia’s strategic deterrent and maritime strike capabilities.
Additionally, statements from the defense leadership confirmed that the upgraded Admiral Nakhimov will be equipped with Zircon missiles, enhancing its long-range strike potential. Sea trials for the upgraded cruiser are planned for year-end completion, reinforcing the fleet’s commitment to fielding cutting-edge weapons systems in a timely manner. These developments reflect the broader modernization push underway across Russia’s naval forces to sustain deterrence and project power abroad.
In related announcements, the 955A project remains a key component of Russia’s strategic submarine force. There is mention that a Borey-A class submarine will ultimately carry the name Peter the Great, following the retirement of the earlier ship from active service. This naming transition illustrates the symbolic continuity of Russia’s maritime heritage even as the fleet evolves with new capabilities and platforms.
For observers, the moves underscore a central theme in Russia’s defense posture: modernizing legacy platforms while integrating advanced missile systems to maintain a credible, enduring sea-based deterrent. The sequence of retirements, transfers, and upgrades highlights the careful balancing act between preserving historical assets and introducing state-of-the-art technology into service. The overarching goal remains clear—ensure that the Russian Navy retains strategic flexibility and operational readiness in a complex geopolitical environment.
As the modernization program progresses, analysts will be watching how these changes affect regional naval dynamics, alliance interoperability, and the tempo of shipbuilding within Russia’s maritime-industrial complex. The ongoing updates to Admiral Nakhimov and the planned reassignment or rechristening of successor platforms reflect a deliberate strategy to maintain a robust, modern fleet capable of projecting power across key theaters.