Russian forces in the Mediterranean - Wk49/2023

Task Force Composition

As reported by OSINT at the morning of Dec-09

Weekly Brief
The Russian Navy strengthens its ties with Algeria by taking part in a joint naval exercise focuses on search and rescue operations. This would be the first time since Russia's invasion of Ukraine that vessels of the Mediterranean task force took part in a joint naval exercise instead of deterring NATO warships in the eastern Mediterranean.

Buyan-M class corvette Orekhovo-Zuyevo has once again departed at sea, most likely in response to Western warships operating in the Eastern Mediterranean. The vessel is escorted by the Amur class repair vessel PM-82 which provides logistic support.

Meanwhile, a task force composed of the Improved Kilo class submarine Ufa, the fleet oiler Kama and the rescue tug Sergey Balk has been making its way towards the Mediterranean. The submarine is intended for the Pacific Fleet and will pass the Mediterranean during her interfleet transit. All three vessels are located at the northern part of the English Channel on December 9nd during the morning. 

Daily Events
December 04
Frigate Admiral Grigorovich arrived in the port of Algiers, Algeria. The vessel will remain in Algeria for eight days and take part in a joint military exercise [1].

December 05
The Russian Ministry of Defense confirms the presence of the Admiral Grigorovich in Algiers as well as the creation of a joint naval headquarter to facilitate the Russo-Algerian naval exercise [2].

December 06
Satellite imagery of the port of Tartus revealed the presence of the fleet oiler Yelnya and possibly the corvette Merkury at anchor at the anchorage outside the harbor. The remainder of the task force was not observed in Tartus [3].

Frigate Admiral Grigorovich started a joint maritime exercise together with the Algerian Navy [4]

December 07
Frigate Admiral Grigorovich is involved in a joint maritime exercise together with the Algerian Navy [4]

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