OVERVIEW: The KIROV class CGN is a 2 shaft, combination nuclear and steam powered (CONAS), multi-role battlecruiser.

DETAILS:   The KIROV class CGN is the largest non-carrier warship built since the end of World War II.  It has a combination steam and nuclear plant, and is capable of being propelled by either, or both plants.  A well-balanced ship, it was the first Soviet design to be able to effectively defend a task force against aircraft.  This multi-role capability made it useful in controling sea areas near the Soviet Union to both protect Soviet SSBN deployment areas and protect Soviet territory.  The class also was equipped with a large C3I suite, making it a likely flagship.
In June 2013, Russia announced plans to modernize and return to service the Admiral Nakhimov.

NOTES: Displacement: 24,300 tons standard
       Speed: 32 knts
       Range: 
       Complement: 800 (approximate)
       In Commission: 1980-to date
       Completed: 4	  

SOURCES: Polmar, Norman, and Siegfried Breyer. Guide to the Soviet Navy. Annapolis, Md: Naval Institute Press, 1983, 133-5 ; 
http://www.janes.com/article/22829/russia-to-return-kirov-class-vessel-to-service-by-2018

