Ukrainian operation disables second Baltic fleet vessel
"As a result of a successful operation by Ukraine's military intelligence, the minesweeper Aleksandr Obukhov was immobilized," announced Ukrainian intelligence on its Telegram channel. This is the second ship of the Russian Baltic Fleet disabled by Ukrainians in the past six months.
The minesweeper Aleksandr Obukhov was stationed in Baltiysk and was there to commence its combat service after undergoing repairs at a shipyard in St. Petersburg in July.
"As a result of a successful operation by Ukraine’s defence intelligence, the minesweeper of the Russian Federation's Baltic Fleet—Aleksandr Obukhov—was immobilized. The vessel, which was stationed in the city of Baltiysk and intended to commence combat service, suffered severe damage—water entered the engine due to a mysterious hole in the exhaust pipe. Obukhov was incapacitated," according to the HUR communiqué.
"Currently, the Russian minesweeper is undergoing extensive repairs, which may turn out to be a significant issue—the damaged M-503 engine is a scarce commodity," the communiqué added.
Russia has eight such vessels in service
Aleksandr Obukhov is a Project 12700 anti-mine ship. These minesweepers were designed by the Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau. They are intended for detecting dangerous underwater objects and clearing areas of threats such as mines.
Although the class of these units was determined to be "minesweeper," in addition to the traditional sweep used to cut the mooring line of a sea mine or detonate it on site, it also employs unmanned underwater vehicles and systems to observe situations under the water surface.
They are distinguished by having the largest hull made of plastic, including fibreglass, rather than metal. This is meant to provide them with immense durability, including reduced detectability by underwater explosives and above all, virtually unlimited lifespan due to the durability of the material.
The ship damaged by Ukraine's military intelligence was the first of this type of minesweeper. It entered service in 2016. So far, nine such units have been launched—eight remain in service, with more under construction.
Aleksandr Obukhov is the second ship of the Baltic Fleet to be destroyed in the past six months. In April, the torpedo corvette "Serpukhov" was immobilized.
