![](https://gallery.trendydigests.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Admiral-Kuznetsovs-4.jpg)
Admiral Kuznetsov, the ship continues to suffer from chronic maintenance issues, accidents, and obsolete technology.
![](https://gallery.trendydigests.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Admiral-Kuznetsovs-13.jpg)
These issues cast shadows over its potential role in enhancing Russia’s naval capabilities, as the Kuznetsov struggles with a troubled past and significant challenges to achieve combat readiness.
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Initially docked for repairs and upgrades in 2017 to prolong its usability for another 10 to 15 years, the carrier has been out of action far longer than anticipated.
![](https://gallery.trendydigests.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Admiral-Kuznetsovs-6.jpg)
The overhaul, as reported by Russian state media TASS, is not expected to commence until at least 2024, a forecast that appears increasingly unrealistic in light of the vessel’s present condition.
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One major issue with the Kuznetsov is its reliance on Mazut fuel, an outdated petrochemical that has numerous drawbacks.
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Mazut is a Bunker B or C fuel known for its thick, black smoke emissions, a byproduct of its high sulfur content and low environmental compatibility.
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The heavy smoke not only poses a risk to sailor health but is also visually indicative of the carrier’s technological lag behind modern, nuclear-powered counterparts. The fuel’s low-quality nature and high maintenance demands have consistently hindered Kuznetsov’s operational readiness.
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Admiral Kuznetsov’s mechanical woes are compounded by a history of fires, accidents, and even criminal cases of embezzlement.
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In 2019, a fire in its engine room claimed the lives of two workers, while a floating crane collided with the ship in 2018, resulting in one fatality and several injuries. December 2022 saw yet another fire on board, reinforcing concerns about the carrier’s cursed fate.
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Moreover, the vessel’s dated STOBAR (Short Take-Off, Barrier Arrested Recovery) system limits its capability compared to CATOBAR (Catapult Assisted Take-Off Barrier Arrested Recovery) carriers like those in the U.S. Navy.
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The necessity of lighter aircraft due to a bow ramp launch system reduces firepower and patrol range, severely constraining Kuznetsov’s operational efficiency. It operates as a Short Take-Off, Barrier Arrested Recovery (STOBAR) carrier, utilizing a ski jump for launching fighter jets.
![](https://gallery.trendydigests.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Admiral-Kuznetsovs-7.jpg)
This ski-jump, located at the carrier’s bow, aids aircraft in taking off. To facilitate the jets’ takeoff, the carrier must maintain a speed ranging from 20 to 30 nautical knots (37 to 55 miles per hour) to generate the required wind conditions.
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In addition to the structural and mechanical challenges, the carrier faces a critical shortage of qualified personnel. Training a new crew of up to 1,500 sailors—a downsizing from the pre-refit crew of 1,900 due to automation—is a long and complex process.
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With the ongoing war in Ukraine, Russia faces a tug-of-war for manpower, as potential naval recruits are diverted to the frontlines.
![](https://gallery.trendydigests.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Admiral-Kuznetsovs-15.jpg)
The requirement for specialized knowledge, particularly for the carrier’s propulsion system and intricate flight deck operations, further delays the Kuznetsov’s readiness.