PKB unveils plan for Varan
A new aircraft carrier for the Russian Navy would operate near the Arctic.
United Shipbuilding Corporation subsidiary Nevsky Design Bureau (PKB) has revealed plans to build a new aircraft carrier for the Russian Navy.
The Varan ‘Universal Sea Ship’ (pictured) will carry 24 multi-role aircraft, six helicopters and up to 20 UAVs, Russian state-run news agency TASS reported on 18 January.
The 45,000t aircraft carrier will be about 250m long with a beam of 65m and draft of 9m. Varan will reach speeds of up to 26kt.
PKB noted that its aim is to create a ‘universal floating airfield’ for combat aircraft, capable of operations in the Northern Sea Route near the Arctic.
Today, the Russian Navy has a single aircraft carrier (Admiral Kuznetsov). Shephard Defence Insight notes that this vessel is undergoing a lengthy refit and modernisation process before expected sea trials in Q4 2022.
Varan is not the only planned new Russian aircraft carrier. Shephard reported last year that the MoD intends to order an 80,000-90,000t vessel as a direct response to the US Gerald R Ford class.
PKB also released a design for a 30,000t ‘Universal Landing Ship’ with seven helicopter landing pads. This vessel will be 220m long with a beam of 42m and draft of 7m, reaching a top speed of about 24kt.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Russian Aircraft Carrier Programme
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Naval Warfare
-
![The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles]()
The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
-
![The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea]()
The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
-
![Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA]()
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
![L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts]()
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
![BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft]()
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
