Uncertain future for Russia's flagship cruiser in Severodvinsk

According to analysts at Defense Express, the cruiser Pyotr Velikiy is unlikely to return to service. The ship is in poor technical condition. Despite long-standing rumours of it being decommissioned, the Russians have not taken action in this regard, likely due to propaganda reasons.

OSINT analyst (open-source intelligence) MT_Anderson published satellite images of the naval base in Severodvinsk from March 11, 2025. Compared to images from two years ago, it is evident that the position of the cruiser Pyotr Velikiy has not changed.

According to Defense Express, the image indicates that Pyotr Velikiy remains moored at the quay in Severodvinsk, with no apparent changes in the vessel’s status at first glance.

Experts suggest that the Russian Navy's command has postponed the final decision regarding the fate of the cruiser Pyotr Velikiy until the cruiser Admiral Nakhimov, under maintenance for nearly 30 years, service returns.

When reports surfaced in July 2023 about Pyotr Velikiy's demise, propaganda media suggested that the ship was still part of the Northern Fleet's combat force and was preparing for repair and modernization. However, as the latest satellite images confirm, these plans were never realized.

All units of Project 1144 (four were built) have been problematic for the Russians. Two were decommissioned in the early 21st century, leaving Pyotr Velikiy and Admiral Nakhimov. Approximately CAD 5 billion has already been spent on Admiral Nakhimov's repair, likely discouraging them from undertaking Pyotr Velikiy's modernization.

The Project 1144 missile cruisers measure about 252 metres in length and over 28 metres in width. Their displacement is over 24,900 metric tonnes, and they are equipped with P-700 Granit anti-ship missiles, anti-aircraft missiles, torpedoes, and depth charges. Several different calibre guns are also mounted on their decks.