According to information published by Tass on March 15, 2023, Russia, China, and Iran kicked off the Maritime Security Belt 2023 trilateral naval exercise in the Arabian Sea, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported.
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Russian tanker Kama. (Picture source: karhu53)
The Russian Navy is represented in the drills by a naval group that consists of the frigate Admiral of the Fleet of the Soviet Union Gorshkov and the medium sea tanker Kama, the ministry said.
At the first stage of the drills, the naval sailors from the three countries will practice episodes of the trilateral naval exercise on maps for joint operations at sea, receive instructions and hold tactical briefings.
The naval phase will run on March 16-17. During this stage, the navies from the three countries will exercise to set up a multinational task force of combat ships, conduct joint maneuvering and carry out artillery firings in the daytime and at night. The naval sailors will also practice freeing a captured vessel, rendering assistance to ships in distress, and some other objectives, the ministry said.
The results of the joint work after the completion of the Maritime Security Belt 2023 exercise will be summed up on March 18, the ministry reported.
Tanker Kama
With a full load displacement of 8,913 tons and a cargo capacity of 5,200 tons, the Project REF-675 tanker Kama is a versatile and efficient tanker for its size.
Measuring 115.5 meters in length, 17.03 meters in beam, and a draft of 7 meters, the ship is well-suited for navigating both international and coastal waters.
Her moderate speed of 14 knots and a range of 5,000 nautical miles at that speed make it a reliable option for long-range transport missions. Additionally, the Kama has an autonomy of 50 days, ensuring it can stay at sea for extended periods without the need for frequent resupply.
The Kama's propulsion system comprises a single 3,500 hp 5DKRN50/110-2 diesel engine, a fixed pitch propeller, and three 264 kW diesel generators, providing the vessel with sufficient power for its intended operations.
The ship's electronics include the Okean M-18 navigation radar and SEP705LN6 radio direction finder, ensuring accurate navigation and communication capabilities even in challenging conditions.
With a crew complement of 32, the Kama is designed to accommodate the necessary personnel to manage its operations and maintenance while at sea.
