Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 39:25-40:18

Why a larger Kirov backup was impractical

The idea of a non-nuclear Kirov substitute runs into shipyard capacity, competition for resources, and the difference between a backup and a rival programme.

Historical AnalogyKirov Class BattlecruisersNaval ProcurementShipbuildingSlava Class CruisersSoviet NavyType 42 DestroyerType 82 Destroyer
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Question

Why did the Soviet Navy not build a larger non-nuclear Kirov-style backup?

Short answer

A ship of comparable size would have consumed scarce yard capacity and become a competitor, whereas Slava was a more practical fallback and presence platform.

Notes

A 20,000-ton-plus alternative would have needed the same scarce construction capacity as the Kirov it was meant to back up. Soviet surface-warship programmes competed for yard space even when submarine construction had stronger protection. A smaller Slava could serve as insurance without becoming a direct rival for resources and priorities. The Type 42 is accepted as a closer reduced-cost counterpart to the much larger Type 82 than a full-size non-nuclear Kirov analogue. Even an attractive paper design could proceed only if a suitable yard was available.