Russian Frigate Admiral Golovko Embarks on First Long-Range Deployment with Zircon Missiles

Russian Navy's Newest Frigate Departs for Distant Shores

Armed with Hypersonic Zircon Missiles, the Admiral Golovko Sets Sail

In a significant development for the Russian Navy, the frigate Admiral Golovko has embarked on its first long-range deployment. The ship, equipped with the cutting-edge Zircon hypersonic missiles, departed from Severomorsk on December 22, 2022, and is expected to sail to the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

The Admiral Golovko is the lead ship of Project 22350, a class of frigates designed for anti-submarine warfare and long-range strike missions. The ship is armed with a variety of weapons, including the Kalibr-NK cruise missiles, the Pantsir-M air defense system, and the Paket-NK anti-submarine warfare system.

However, the most notable feature of the Admiral Golovko is its Zircon hypersonic missiles. The Zircon is a Mach 9-capable missile that can strike targets at ranges of up to 1,000 kilometers. The missile is designed to penetrate enemy air defenses and destroy high-value targets such as aircraft carriers and other warships.

The deployment of the Admiral Golovko with Zircon missiles is a significant step for the Russian Navy. It marks the first time that the Navy has deployed a ship equipped with hypersonic weapons on a long-range mission. The deployment is also seen as a sign of Russia's growing naval capabilities and its determination to project power in distant waters.

The Admiral Golovko is expected to sail to the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, where it will likely conduct exercises with other Russian warships. The ship may also visit ports in friendly countries, such as India and China.

The deployment of the Admiral Golovko is sure to be closely watched by NATO and other Western powers. The ship's presence in distant waters could lead to increased tensions between Russia and the West.