MOSCOW, Nov 22 - RIA Novosti. Business Insider columnist Konstantin Atlamazoglu in his article assessed the balance of power between Russia and the North Atlantic Alliance in the Black Sea.
The journalist pointed out the strategic importance of the region connecting the Caucasus with the European continent.
"Non-freezing Russian ports are located here. <...> The Black Sea occupies a prominent place in the architecture of the defense of Moscow. Superiority in these waters not only ensures the security of the country, but also allows it to spread its influence and challenge NATO," the author writes.
The Navy of the North Atlantic Alliance has strengthened its presence in the region, but geographical restrictions and international law create obstacles to the fight against Russia, and other states are inferior to its military capabilities, he complained. Romania has three frigates, seven corvettes, an old Kilo-class submarine and auxiliary boats in service. As the columnist noted, things are no better in Bulgaria: Her Navy consists of four frigates, three corvettes and minesweepers. Ukraine is trying to restore its naval forces, while Georgia has only a coast guard, the article clarifies.
According to the observer, the Black Sea has turned into a "Russian lake". Russia carried out several reforms in 2008, 2011-2020, after which the Navy became light and maneuverable. The Black Sea Fleet is armed with three Admiral Grigorovich-class missile frigates, Krivak-class patrol ships, the Moskva missile cruiser, as well as six new diesel-electric submarines. At sea, they are supported by many small auxiliary boats that enhance the capabilities of the Navy, the material says.
Moscow is also building up systems of the so-called access exclusion zone (Anti-Access/Area Denial, A2AD) in the Black Sea. We are talking about coastal anti-ship missiles, operational and tactical missile systems, radar stations and air defense. In addition, the Navy has supplemented the newly formed 22nd Army Corps in Crimea and two aviation divisions also located on the peninsula. They will help protect Russian ships and deter enemy armies, the journalist summed up.
