Events from 1961 to 1963 changed the Soviet Navy's standing and shipbuilding priorities. Construction of the Kynda class stopped after four ships, while a larger Shaddock-armed anti-carrier design was abandoned. The interim Kresta I kept only half the Kynda missile load but added stronger air defence and helicopter support. Kresta II then replaced the anti-ship battery with long-range anti-submarine missiles, tracing a practical response to changing fleet requirements.
Chapter · 0:02-1:15
From Kynda to Kresta after 1961-63
The opening comparison shows how the Soviet Navy moved from the Kynda missile cruiser toward Kresta I and II after the strategic shocks of the early 1960s.