The Aist class (Russian - Project 12321 Dzheyran) was the first large assault hovercraft operated by the Soviet Navy. It was designed by the Almaz design bureau in 1964-1965. Production of the craft lasted from 1970 until 1985 in Leningrad. The Aist class prototype was built in 1970, and the type entered production in Leningrad in 1975. In total, 20 ships were built from 1970 to 1985 under this project.

The ship's capacity was designed for two medium or four amphibious tanks. The total displacement of Project 12321 reached 360 tons, full speed of 49 knots, cruising range of 300 miles, autonomy of 5 days. The main power plant of this ship consisted of two DT-4 gas turbine engines with a total capacity of 32000 hp, driving the superchargers and four propellers. The pontoons and the cargo hold of the ship ensured its positive buoyancy in any situation. At full speed, the ship is controlled by air rudders located behind the propellers, and at low speeds - by jet rudders with air intake from axial blowers.

Assault Air-Cushioned Landing Craft MDK-16 laid down at the Almaz Shipyard, Leningrad (yard No.81)/ Commissioned in 1981 and was assigned to the Black Sea Fleet.

On 05 December 1995 the ship was excluded from the lists of the Black Sea Fleet and scrapped.