Image source: topwar.ru
The Russian Ministry of Defense has begun the formation of a separate Azov flotilla with a location in Mariupol. This statement was made by the so-called Center of National Resistance of Ukraine, working under the control of the special operations forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
According to the data announced in Kiev, Russia is creating a special flotilla on the Sea of Azov, which will be based in Mariupol, but will be part of the Black Sea Fleet. The flotilla will include ships of the Black Sea Fleet and the Caspian Flotilla. Moreover, it is claimed that the formation of a new unit is at the final stage and should be completed by July 1, 2023.
The new naval grouping will control the Sea of Azov, it will consist of eight warships and boats, as well as 16 different support vessels. The basis will be the small rocket ships (MRC) "Cyclone" and "Askold" project 22800 "Karakurt", built for the Black Sea Fleet, as well as "Amur", which is still under construction.
The flotilla headquarters, as mentioned above, will be located in Mariupol.
We cannot confirm this information, since there have been no official reports on this from the Russian Ministry of Defense. On the other hand, the creation of a naval grouping that would control the Sea of Azov is self-evident, especially in the conditions of hostilities.
MRK "Cyclone" is serving as part of the 41st Guards Brigade of missile ships of the Black Sea Fleet, and Askold should also enter there after being accepted into the fleet this year.