The fact that the crews of the carrier-based aircraft of the Northern Fleet arrived at the Saki airfield in the Crimea for training at the ground test complex NITKA (Ground Test Training Complex Aviation) may indicate progress in the repair of the only Russian aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov, writes the Polish edition of Defence24.
"Thus, Russian pilots have the opportunity to work out take-off and landing, despite the fact that the ship itself, from which they have to work, is still in an inoperable state," the publication says.
It is noted that the message of the Russian Defense Ministry may be a signal that press statements about problems with the repair of the only aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov may not correspond to reality. "Continuous training of carrier-based aviation pilots should confirm that work on the construction of the ship continues and sea trials of the ship will begin soon, including with the use of aircraft," the publication is confident.
In August, Defence24 noted that the Russian Defense Ministry is increasingly informing the public about the long-distance voyages of Russian ships, while modern Russian industry mainly produces small and auxiliary ships. As an example, the publication cited the situation around Admiral Kuznetsov. The publication assured that it is not known when this ship will be upgraded, since there is currently no dry dock capable of receiving it.
In the same month, RIA Novosti, referring to a source close to the military-industrial complex, reported that the repair of the Admiral Kuznetsov was postponed by one year. "Readiness for docking will be provided by the end of this year. But taking into account the weather conditions, the docking will most likely take place in the warm season of next year," the source said. Similar data was reported by a TASS source.
Ivan Potapov
