The largest warship of Kazakhstan, the "Kunaev," launched and set to carry out missions in the Caspian Sea
According to Kazakh International News Agency, the R4240 project multi-purpose replenishment vessel "Kunaev," built by the Zenit Shipyard located in Yekaterinburg, was officially launched recently ahead of the Day of the Fatherland Defenders. As the largest vessel constructed independently by Kazakhstan since independence, this ship will head to the Caspian Sea to perform support missions in the future.
The launching ceremony took place on the Chagan River, with Naryman Tolekhaliyev, Governor of West Kazakhstan Region, attending the event. The Governor stated that this project is a significant undertaking commissioned and implemented by the Ministry of Defense under the framework of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's instructions aimed at strengthening national defense capabilities.
Tolekhaliyev pointed out that thanks to the high professional standards and hard work of the team at the Zenit Shipyard, Kazakhstan has successfully built its largest vessel to date. Named after the renowned Kazakh political and social figure Dinmukhamed Kunaev, the vessel is expected to contribute significantly to enhancing national defense capacity.
It is reported that the "Kunaev" is the 37th ship built by the Zenit Shipyard. Construction began in 2023, with formal delivery scheduled for within 2026. The vessel has a full-load displacement of approximately 750 tons, measures 51 meters in length and 9.5 meters in width, with a maximum speed of up to 16 knots. It can withstand storms of up to level 8 and operate under ice conditions ranging from 0.6 to 0.8 meters thick.
As a multi-functional maritime support vessel, the "Kunaev" can provide diesel fuel, fresh water, food, and other supplies to naval ships and fast boats at sea. It also possesses capabilities in emergency rescue, firefighting, medical evacuation, towing, lifting, marine repair, and diving operations, enabling it to serve as a mobile maritime support platform.
The ship features living and working areas for about 30 crew members, providing relatively comprehensive living conditions.
Vitaly Kaplunov, General Manager of the Zenit Shipyard, said this project embodies the collective efforts of all employees and represents another important achievement in the development of Kazakhstan’s shipbuilding industry.
Notably, due to the need to pass under bridges en route to the Caspian Sea, the ship’s mast will be installed only after arriving at the port of Aktau.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1864416445088009/
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