Russian Navy research ship Romuald Muklevich back in service after nearly-four-year refit

The Russian Navy’s Project 685 hydrographic research vessel Romuald Muklevich has re-entered service following a repair and upgrade programme that began in June 2016.

The 1991-built vessel is now fitted with a new multi-beam echosounder and other equipment that will enable it to locate and identify sunken objects on the seabed in addition to fulfilling its primary role of hydrographic and oceanographic research in Russia’s Arctic waters.

Romuald Muklevich is currently in transit to Severomorsk, home of the Russian Northern Fleet. Upon arrival in Severomorsk and prior to commencement of operational sailings, the vessel and its crew will undergo Covid-19 screening.

The refit was carried out at Kronstadt Marine Plant, a subsidiary of Russia’s United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC).