An unknown Russian Project 22870 ship, stationed in Novorossiysk, has docked for the first time in the port of Ochamchira in Abkhazia, according to satellite imagery analyzed by analyst HI Sutton, as reported by Naval News
In this region, the Russian Armed Forces are building a base for the Navy under an agreement with the unrecognized republic.
Reports suggest this base could serve as cover for the Russian fleet, particularly amidst Ukrainian military actions in occupied Crimea and Novorossiysk. Georgia and Western countries have expressed concerns over the establishment of such a base in Abkhazia, viewing it as a threat to Tbilisi's national security.
According to HI Sutton, the ship was in Novorossiysk on June 28, disappeared from radars on July 1, and reappeared in Ochamchira on July 4 and 5.
Naval News notes that there are currently three Project 22870 ships operating in the Black Sea: SB-742, "Professor Nikolai Muru," and "Captain Guryev."
HI Sutton also recalled that on July 3, the Russian Armed Forces repelled a UAV attack in Novorossiysk, destroying two maritime drones. Ukrainian UAVs allegedly struck the pier where the considered ship usually docks. Sutton speculates the ship may have been at sea and headed to Ochamchira to avoid the attack.
Previously, small patrol boats of the Russian FSB have been stationed in Ochamchira, but the arrival of a Project 22870 ship marks the first significant military vessel visit from Russia to Abkhazia since President Aslan Bzhania announced the establishment of a permanent base for the Russian fleet there.
