Kirov first appeared to NATO observers as BALCOM I, short for Baltic Combatant One. The Baltic was an unattractive place for such a large and valuable ship because confined waters concentrate threats and restrict maneuver. A Baltic combatant could be small, numerous, and close to expendable, or protected well enough to survive an exceptionally hostile environment. Kirov had formidable weapons and size, but its limited armor made the second proposition doubtful despite its overwhelming firepower.
Notable Point · 22:20-23:06
Why the Baltic was a dangerous operating area for Kirov
The confined Baltic exposed a huge, lightly protected missile cruiser to concentrated threats despite its BALCOM I label.