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Russian Aircraft Carriers



Project 1143 Krechyet Class
NATO : Kiev



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The Kievs were Russias first attempt at a carrier capable of operating fixed wing aircraft. Like most Russian ships, they had a heavy shipmounted armament, but as the only aircraft to be carried were the Yak-38 Forger in addition to helicopters, they must be regarded as advanced anti-submarine cruisers. All had considerable trouble with their engines.

Project 1143.4 Krechyet-Mod Class
NATO : Baku



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The Baku was an updated version of the Kievs with increased firepower. She has been used mostly as a trials ship to develop equipment for the Kuznetsovs.

Project 1143.5 Kuznetsov Class


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The Kuznetsovs were Russias first true carriers. The design is based on the Kievs, but with a full length flight deck and ski jump, and greater self defence capability. The engines are the same as the Kievs, and have given considerable trouble.

Project 1143.7 Ul'yanovsk Class


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The Ul'yanovsk would have been Russias first nuclear aircraft carrier and comparable to the American Nimitz class. The breakup of the Soviet Union prevented her completion and she was scrapped.