Recently, Russian media has been abuzz with reports regarding a potential contract for the acquisition of two large amphibious vessels under Project 11711. Although Moscow has yet to issue an official statement, these reports suggest that the new ships will incorporate an upgraded design.
For context, Project 11711, which includes the Ivan Gren-class amphibious ships, was conceived by the Neva Design Bureau as an evolution of the earlier Project 1171 Tapir-class vessels. Originally, Russia intended to construct six units; however, this number was later reduced to two. The lead vessel, Ivan Gren, was initially scheduled for fleet introduction in 2008 after its keel was laid in December 2004. The project, however, experienced multiple delays and was subsequently paused.
The Ivan Gren was eventually launched in 2012 and delivered in 2018, while its sister ship, Pyotr Morgunov, saw faster progress. Laid down in 2015, it was launched in 2018 and commissioned in 2020. Both ships are now operational with the 121st naval unit of the Northern Fleet.
In a surprising turn, these ships, designed primarily for amphibious operations, have been reclassified by Russian media as a “miracle weapon” for mine warfare. This unexpected role underscores their versatility and hints at a broader adaptation beyond their initial landing craft capabilities.
Initially planned as a two-ship program, Project 11711 was expanded in 2019 to include two additional vessels: Vladimir Andreev and Vasily Trushin. These new ships feature an increased displacement of 8,000 tons, up from the previous 6,600 tons, which enhances their capacity for transporting troops and equipment and augments their operational versatility.
Despite Western economic sanctions, Russia’s warship-building program remains robust due to its developed domestic defense industry. Significant investments in manufacturing capabilities have reduced reliance on foreign components and technology, allowing Russia to maintain progress on its naval projects. Additionally, the Kremlin’s strategic emphasis on military expenditure ensures that essential projects, such as warship construction, receive uninterrupted funding and support.
Russia has actively pursued alternative trade partnerships to counteract the effects of Western sanctions. By strengthening economic and military ties with non-Western nations such as China and India, Russia secures crucial materials, technology, and financial resources necessary for its naval construction programs.
Moreover, the Russian government has adopted various strategies to stabilize its economy and mitigate the impact of sanctions. These strategies include economic diversification, accumulating substantial foreign currency reserves, and implementing import substitution policies. Such measures support the defense sector and ensure the continuation of military projects, including warship construction.
Despite sanctions, Russia continues to advance its naval capabilities. The push to enhance the Black Sea fleet with two new large amphibious vessels is a response to Ukraine’s significant successes against the Russian fleet, which has depleted the number of operational combat ships. Contrary to predictions that sanctions would cripple shipbuilding and repair efforts, Russia persists in maintaining its naval strength even under economic and technological constraints.
For example, the Project 636.3 diesel-electric submarine Rostov-on-Don, which sustained damage from a missile strike on Sevastopol last year, is currently undergoing repairs. According to BulgarianMilitary.com, the submarine has been moved from dry dock to the equipment quay and is making steady progress. Local shipbuilders, alongside specialists from the Admiralty Shipyards, are diligently working on the repairs. A source cited by TASS reported, “The submarine has successfully exited dry dock, and repairs are continuing in the water.”
On September 13, 2023, Ukrainian forces targeted Sevastopol with a missile strike, causing damage to the Sevastopol Shipyard, the amphibious assault ship Minsk, and the Rostov-on-Don submarine, which was already under repair. Although the submarine’s hull withstood critical damage, the repair timeline has been extended.
Project 11711 Overview
Project 11711, also known as the Ivan Gren-class landing ships, is designed for amphibious operations. These vessels are engineered to transport and deploy troops, vehicles, and equipment to shore to support military operations.
The Ivan Gren-class ships are approximately 120 meters long with a 16.5-meter beam and a draft of around 3.8 meters, allowing them to operate near shorelines. With a displacement of about 5,000 tons when fully loaded, these ships strike a balance between payload capacity and operational flexibility.
The ships are equipped with advanced navigation and communication systems, as well as automated control systems for various shipboard operations. For armament, they feature AK-630 close-in weapon systems (CIWS) for defense against aerial and missile threats, 30mm automatic cannons, and a range of small arms and anti-aircraft missiles for self-defense.
