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Center for International Security Research Fellow Dmitry Stefanovich provided a commentary for the Asia-Pacific Leadership Network (APLN) on the recent Kalibr missile system tests from modernized «Marshall Shaposhnikov» frigate in the Sea of Japan, as well as Russian non-nuclear deterrence capability development trends in the region.

Launches of Kalibr-family cruise missiles (land-attack 3M14 and anti-ship 3M54) from modernized “Marshall Shaposhnikov” frigate symbolize the long-expected arrival of modern Russian long-range strike capabilities to the Far East*.

Other remaining Udaloy-class ships (originally designed as surface combatants for anti-submarine warfare with limited surface attack capabilities) are also expected to be upgraded with new missiles, while the Russian shipbuilders struggle to deliver modern warships in substantial numbers. Compared to two 8-cell vertical launchers on “Shaposhnikov”, next upgraded ships can have twice as much on board. However, given the anti-submarine warfare legacy, as well as prevalence of relevant threats at the Pacific theater, at least some of the launch cells (or even up to 50% of those) will be occupied with anti-submarine guided missile of the Kalibr family – 91R.

 Implications of Russia's Recent Long-Range Cruise Missile Test in the Sea of Japan/East Sea