This frigate is recognized by international specialists as a best ship in its class (frigate). The specialists notes next indices: design, power-to-weight ratio, speed, armament. In the late 1970s the designation changed to SKR (Storozhevoy Koabl'), a more accurate indication of their actual capabilities.

Although the class followed on from the Kashin in terms of construction dates, the Krivak is smaller, has an altogether more sophisticated ASW outfit, lacks an area defence SAM system arguably the main armament of the Kashin and is easier to build the latter factor made it possible to allocate construction to the smaller Baltic and Black Sea shipyards, leaving the slipways of the traditional naval yards free for the construction of larger units.

The major ASW system is the Rastrub-B (SS-N-14) missiles, fired from a bulky quadruple launcher forward. This is backed up by RBU-6000 mortars immediately forward of the bridge and torpedo tubes amidships. Only close range air defence is provided, pair of anti-aircraft missile systems of Osa (SA-N-4 Gecko) on the bow and stern of the ship and a pair of 76mm guns at the stern of the ship. The Krivak is unusual in its generation in having no “last ditch” anti missile system such as the 30mm Gatting; ECM provision is also minimal compared with the “1st rate” BPKs. The Krivak`s are fitted with four gas turbines, two for cruising and two for boost. The ships thus have rapid acceleration from a cold start, coupled with good endurance.

The eleven Krivak-IIs differ from the earlier vessels in having two 100mm guns in single mounts and the break to the quarterdeck further aft.

Guided Missile Frigate Deyatelny was laid down 21 June 1972 at the Zaliv Zavod, Kerch (yard No.13), launched 05 April 1975, completed 25 December 1975 and was assigned to the Black Sea Fleet.

The frigate served in the 30th Surface Ship Division of the Black Sea Fleet.

Guided Missile Frigate Deyatelny was decommissioned and excluded from the lists of the Black Sea Fleet on 10 July 1995.

06 April 1997 the ship under tows was taken to Turkey for cutting into metal.