PETROPAVLOVSK-KAMCHATSKY. Aug 16 (Interfax) - The next-generation modular rescue hovercraft SMK-2187 of Project 23370M has been launched in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky; the hovercraft was built for the rescue unit of the Russian Pacific Fleet, the fleet press service said on Thursday.
"The launch ceremony was attended by commanders of the forces stationed in northeastern Russia, servicemen of the rescue unit, representatives of the manufacturing plant, heads of the territorial administration, and priests of the Kamchatka diocese," the fleet said.
Two heavy floating cranes helped launch the hovercraft.
Hovercraft of Project 23370M were designed by the KAMPO company based in Orekhovo-Zuyevo. Compared with the previous modification, they can travel at higher speeds and better seaworthiness. Unlike hovercraft of Project 2370, they can carry two 20ft containers filled with property and equipment.
The hovercrafts were designed for search, rescue, and undersea technical works, including 45-meter dives. They have improved diving and firefighting systems, a hydraulic crane with the 5-tonne lifting capacity, and a mechanical hoist with the 250-kilo lifting capacity.
The hovercrafts are assembled of modules at the base; modules are supplied separately.