The Meaning of Russia's New Pacific Fleet

Jan. 26 -- Russia's Pacific Fleet returned to extended naval operations with the sailing of two Udaloy class destroyers to India and Vietnam.

The choice of the Admiral Vinogradov and Admiral Panteleyev, large anti-submarine warfare ships, demonstrates Russian military capability and a willingness to provide assistance in the vital shipping lanes of Southeast Asia.

Russia's extended naval journey is significant in that it marks the Pacific Fleet's first long-term mission in the last five years, Reuters reported Jan. 15. Until now, the Pacific Fleet has been unable to conduct extended operations because of chronic cash shortages.

An Interest in Submarines

Russia had a choice of ships to send on the voyage. The Pacific Fleet, formerly comprised more than 100 submarines and surface ships, now has a much-reduced capability. The fleet maintains surface warships, among them several Sovremenny class destroyers, powerful warships armed with supersonic anti-ship missiles.

Unlike the Sovremenny, the Udaloy primarily is an anti-submarine vessel with large bow-mounted sonar and two KA-7 helix anti-submarine helicopters. The Udaloys serve as a capable anti-submarine platform while posing a limited threat to commercial shipping.

Many nations bordering the South China Sea began purchasing submarines during the economic boom of the late 1980s and early 1990s. The geographic and economic nature of the area dictated the increased investment in submarines. Shipping is vital to Southeast Asia, as raw materials and products primarily move through the shipping lanes of the South China Sea. Submarines provide an effective way to block these naval trade routes.

According to the United States Energy Information Administration, half of the world's supertankers pass through the region. Additionally half of the world's merchant fleet (by tonnage) sails through the region each year.

Submarines probably would provide a valuable tool in controlling the sea lanes in the area. Any conflict in the region probably will focus on controlling the vital shipping and trade lanes of the South China Sea.