Russian Intelligence Ship Kildin: Incident off the Syrian Coast

The Russian intelligence ship Kildin, originally built as a hydrographic survey vessel under the Moma Class (Project 861), has long been a significant asset for electronic intelligence gathering in the Russian Navy. Converted from a survey ship to an intelligence vessel under Project 861M, Kildin represents one of nine such conversions from a series of 29 ships built between 1967 and 1973 in Gdansk, Poland.

Historical Overview of the Kildin
Laid down at the Stocznia Polnocna Shipyard as yard number 861/13, Kildin was launched on December 31, 1969, and commissioned on May 23, 1970. Shortly after its commissioning, the vessel underwent conversion into an intelligence-gathering platform. Equipped with advanced surveillance and communication systems such as the Bizan ESM radar system, sonar MG-329 Sheksna, and the Vitok-AK electronic suite, Kildin was designed to gather critical intelligence in maritime operations.

With a standard displacement of 1,080 tons (1,560 tons at full load) and a speed of 17.3 knots, the ship boasts a range of 9,700 nautical miles at 11 knots, allowing for extended missions lasting up to 35 days. The crew complement of 73 includes 11 officers, reflecting the complexity of its operations and the need for specialized personnel. Its Strela surface-to-air missile system provides a limited defensive capability.

the Incident
On January 23, 2025, Kildin faced a severe crisis off the coast of Syria near Tartus. A fire broke out onboard, with flames and thick black smoke visible from the smokestack—indicating a potential engine room fire. The ship, adrift and unable to maneuver, signaled its loss of control by hoisting two black balls.

The crew gathered at the stern, preparing for a possible evacuation, as onboard security teams battled to contain the fire. Reports suggest the situation was exacerbated by an engine failure. Nearby Russian vessels and the cargo ship TM Milla Moon were instructed to maintain distance, providing no immediate assistance.

Western forces, including the French Navy, closely monitored the unfolding events but refrained from intervening, as no formal request for assistance was made by Russian authorities. After nearly five hours, the fire was subdued, and the engines were restarted. While the ship eventually regained mobility, its operational status and the extent of the damage remain uncertain.