By Matt Underwood Russia’s lone aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, is likely destined for the scrapyard or a sale, according to shipbuilding sources. This feels like the inevitable conclusion to a long-running saga of neglect and repeated mishaps for a ship that’s more of a symbol than a functional war machine. The idea of this vessel, a source of national pride, ending up as scrap metal is a stark illustration of the current state of affairs, highlighting resource constraints and strategic missteps.
Who, realistically, would even want to buy this thing? The Kuznetsov has a reputation, and not a good one. It’s notoriously unreliable, a constant source of breakdowns, and even features a fire truck on deck – an unusual addition, to say the least. The fact that it needs a tugboat just to function speaks volumes about its operational capabilities. Some even joke about whether it comes with the necessary tugboat for when it breaks down!
Frankly, some countries just aren’t built for naval power, no matter how much they try. Russia, despite its historical aspirations, seems to be a prime example. They’ve poured vast resources into the Russian Navy, achieving prestige rather than practical success. Their history is peppered with embarrassing naval failures, weird ship designs, and a general lack of success in any meaningful naval battles since the age of sail. Perhaps this is an indication that their economic situation is finally forcing them to let go of ego projects.
The Russian Navy’s shortcomings are well documented. The ship itself isn’t nuclear powered, meaning it requires constant refueling. This limits its operational range and increases logistical challenges. The Kuznetsov has been plagued by fires, damage, and a general lack of maintenance. It’s also an aging ship, making it less appealing in the modern naval landscape. This is a ship more suited to being the butt of jokes than being a naval asset.
If the Russians were to sell the Kuznetsov, who would be the buyer? There are few, if any, contenders. China has a reliable training vessel already and is building its own fleet. Maybe North Korea would consider it, but most people are inclined to make jokes, not serious offers. The idea of a “sale” seems more about a symbolic transaction than a real operational asset.
The Admiral Kuznetsov’s issues have even provided a strange service to Ukraine. It diverted resources and money into the futile effort of keeping it “operational.” Russia would probably be better off giving it to Ukraine as a joke! Ultimately, selling it for scrap is the most probable outcome.
It is fair to say the Admiral Kuznetsov is a symbol of the struggles of the Russian Navy, which in itself is a symbol of Russia’s struggles. The potential scrapping of this carrier sends a strong message about the country’s priorities and its ability to maintain a modern, effective military force. It reflects the constraints of a struggling economy, highlighting the shift away from traditional naval power. The Russian military has a track record of over-promising and under-delivering.