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-162 laid down at the Almaz Shipyard, Leningrad (yard No.78). Commissioned
on 09 September 1979 and was assigned to the Black Sea Fleet. On 08 July
1996 the ship was decommissioned, stricken from the Black Sea Fleet list and scrapped. Specifications |
Displacement (tons): | Standard: | 310 |
Full load: | 360 |
Dimensions (m): | Length: | 45,5 |
Beam: | 17,4 |
Draft: | 1,6 | Speed
(knots): | 49 | Range: | 300
nmi (49 knots) | Autonomy (days): | 5 |
Propulsion: | 2x16000 hp NK-12
gas turbines, 2x2 air propellers, 2x30 kW DG-30 diesel-generators, 1x40 kW 1E20
turbine-type generator | Armament: | 2x2
30 mm AK-230 (2000 rounds) – MR-104 Rys fire control system | Electronics: |
Mius navigation radar | Cargo: | 2
T-72 main battle tanks or 4 PT-76 light tanks or 5 BTR or 80 troops or 73,2 tons
of cargo | Complement: | 21
(3 officers) |
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