Chapter 881 The future of Frunze
Nicholas’s eyes lit up: “Okay.”
In the dock, a huge warship is under construction. Due to the use of advanced construction technology, the progress is very fast. The first half has begun to take shape. Looking at the huge hull, Nicholas is filled with emotion.
“This warship probably has a displacement of 40,000 tons, right?”
"That's right, the full load is more than 40,000 tons." Qin Tao said: "Now you can see its structure from here. There is a hangar above and a dock below. In addition to taking off and landing vertical fighter jets, this kind of warship can also carry amphibious aircraft. Combat equipment.”
“Amphibious operations?” Nicholas opened his eyes wide: “This warship can do amphibious operations?”
"Yes, although we claim that this is an aircraft carrier, in fact, it is more accurately positioned as an amphibious assault ship." Qin Tao said: "Back then, during the Vietnam War, Americans found that if they wanted to land in Vietnam, they had to Conducted thirty kilometers away from the coastline, otherwise the warship would run great risks. In this case, they needed a large warship with a straight deck, carrying helicopters above and hovercraft and amphibious vehicles below. This was born A brand new amphibious assault ship.”
The amphibious assault ship was really invented by the Americans and is the main force of their Marine Corps.
"Yes, this kind of special ship is indeed needed. Unfortunately, our navy does not have similar ships." Nicholas sighed with emotion.
They lack everything, and they lack even more amphibious assault ships. Specifically, they don't have any at all.
Now they only have a dozen tank landing ships on hand, the models are Type 1171 and Type 775, both with a displacement of more than 4,000 tons. They are warships designed and built by the Red Empire in the 1970s and 1980s. Not only are their performance outdated, but they have not yet been developed. Carrying a helicopter. Overall, it is similar to Dongfang's 072 tank landing ship.
The Red Empire is a traditional land country. It has no need for maritime hegemony and no awareness of amphibious landings. After all, when needed, it can just push the rolling torrent of armor straight over. They have quite a few inland river landing ships, but it is a pity that they cannot go to sea. use.
However, after the separation, Damao found that he had this need, but he just had the need and did not have the strength to build it, so he could only wait for the opportunity.
Now, looking at the warship in front of him, Nicholas was moved.
“This warship is really good.” Nicholas said, “It would be great if we also had this kind of warship.”
"It will definitely happen in the future." Qin Tao said: "In the past few years, your economy has gradually recovered and the energy market is also good. In the future, you will definitely build such a powerful amphibious assault ship, but..."
“But what?”
"But today's amphibious assault ships must be equipped with vertical take-off and landing fighters to exert their greatest power." Qin Tao said: "You only had the Yak-38 before. Unfortunately, the problem of deck ablation cannot be solved, and it is no longer in production. , if you purchase it from us, the price is too expensive, and you probably won’t be able to purchase it. Without vertical take-off and landing fighter jets, this combat capability will be greatly reduced.”
Nicolas frowned.
Yes, when purchasing a piece of equipment, you must have a large amount of supporting equipment to achieve combat effectiveness. Even if you purchase this kind of amphibious assault ship, it will not work without fighter jets.
What about the helicopter?
Look at which amphibious assault ship has a helicopter? Either it will be equipped with the Sea Harrier, or it will be equipped with the Eastern J-31A or the vertical take-off and landing fighter aircraft being developed by the United States. If there are only helicopters, the combat capability will be reduced by more than half.
"Helicopters are too weak, and you don't have this type of jet. It would be nice if we could make a compromise." Qin Tao's eyes suddenly lit up: "It suddenly occurred to me that I heard that you, the Mili Design Bureau, have a Mi- 30, like the American Osprey, is a good tilt-rotor aircraft. If you develop this kind of aircraft, you can also make the amphibious assault ship show its power."
“Osprey?”
"Yes, the U.S. Marine Corps is purchasing Osprey in large quantities. This thing has a maximum take-off weight of nearly thirty tons. It can transport a large number of personnel and equipment, and can also be equipped with weapons for ground attack. Its combat effectiveness is much higher than that of helicopters. Its technology The difficulty is also low, and you can fully support the Mili Design Bureau in developing this kind of aircraft."
support? Where does our navy have the funds? Nicholas' face was ugly: "Qin, our navy doesn't have that much money!"
"No funds? This is indeed a problem. How about I fool the relevant departments in our country and jointly design it with your Mili Design Bureau?" Qin Tao said: "If this kind of aircraft is developed, there will be a demand in our country. , I will definitely purchase it, and our Mingzhou Group Transportation Company can also purchase a batch."
"Really? That's great!" Nicholas was very satisfied: "Okay, then I will do as you said. After I go back, I will contact the Miri Design Bureau and ask people from the Miri Design Bureau to come over. , let’s get in touch with you.”
come over? Qin Tao nodded: "Of course, I will take them to our relevant departments to fool our leaders, and maybe we can win a scientific research fund."
If you come to the door, you may have to be questioned by the Miri Design Bureau and other people in Moscow. But if the other party comes to the door to ask for cooperation, then there will be no such situation. We are completely passive and have to pay in order to help the other party. If we work together, various cooperation agreements will be more beneficial to ourselves when the time comes.
This matter cannot be said too much. These are enough. Next, there is another major event about the Mao Navy.
“Qin, Moscow has decided to renovate the Admiral Razaev first. This warship will be towed by our tugboat and receive repairs at your place.”
Their tugboats are coming not only to tow away 22350, but also to tow the Type 1144 cruiser!
Most of you are not familiar with the name Admiral Razaev, but if you want to talk about the previous name, then everyone knows it, it was the Frunze!
This warship was started in 1978, launched in 1981, and commissioned in 1984. When it was in service, it made a mighty journey to the East, and there was a confrontation in the waters of the East.
After the collapse of the Red Empire, this warship was in poor condition. It began to sit in the port in 1994, and was officially decommissioned in 1997.
Now, Lao Maozi is also worried about Dongfang's modification capabilities and is reluctant to send the latest Nassimov over for modification. He simply uses the Frunze for experiments first.
"Before coming, the nuclear reactor of this warship has been completely cut and taken out. This is the only thing I can do to help you. Next, it is up to you to restore the vitality of this warship." Nicholas said .
The biggest problem of the Kirov-class cruiser is the power system. Because of the unreliability of nuclear power, or because of the brutal operation of the sailors, the nuclear power system suffered early loss and was eventually scrapped. Fortunately, there are auxiliary systems on this type of cruiser. Boiler power can give the warship the power to continue moving forward when a nuclear power accident occurs, so that it will not collapse.
At the beginning, Mingzhou Group proposed a plan to install two 40-megawatt gas turbines, which was approved by Lao Maozi.
In order to raise funds for modification, Lao Maozi also agreed to export timber in exchange. Now, the amount of wood exported is about 20 to 30 million US dollars, which is still far from the required renovation cost. However, Lao Maozi can't wait any longer and has to start. .
How can they only have 22,350 frigates? They also have to have a 25,000-ton battleship!
“Of course, no problem. Have you confirmed the modification plan?”
"Currently, the arsenal ship solution has the lowest cost. We treat this warship as a weapons-carrying warship, and then rely on the 22350 data link to transmit information and launch attacks." Nicholas said: "Of course, this This is just an initial idea. The final transformation will have to wait until 22350 completes its outfitting. However, if the gas turbine transformation can be completed now, it can at least restore the vitality of this warship, even if other weapons and equipment are not changed. Undertake the task."
Qin Tao nodded: "Yes, as long as it is towed over, we will renovate it immediately. Although our large dock is still occupied, we can use our floating dock."
Nicholas nodded: "Based on the principle of minimal modification, we believe that it is better to place the engine in the original position of the turbine room. This way, although complex pipelines need to be arranged, it can avoid a big fight. If it is installed under the bridge, then If there are too many compartments that need to be cut, the warship will lose its combat capability."
Qin Tao’s original suggestion was to place the engine under the bridge and then use electric propulsion. This was a major change. After all, the engine was not originally placed under the bridge. This only took care of the position of the chimney.
Now, Lao Maozi decided to keep it simple. It would be no problem to extend the flue. Anyway, they already have a boiler and a flue, so they just need to enlarge the size.
Although all-electric propulsion sounds great, after the Mingzhou Group completed the work, the entire warship has changed drastically and needs to continue to be renovated. Now, if there is no money, other things will not change and the power system will be improved. Continue to serve.
Qin Tao nodded: "Okay, let's do what you think."
"In this way, we can also save a lot of renovation funds. After all, you don't need to dismantle the reactor or install electric propulsion. You just need to insert the gas turbine and reduction gearbox, change the flue, etc., so , can you give us a cheaper price?"
Faced with Nikolai's request, Qin Tao shook his head and refused on the spot: "Of course it's impossible. The renovation funds cannot be changed. If you change the plan, we will have to waste more time and energy. It's good if we don't increase the funds for you. ”
Nicola's face looks a little ugly, isn't it?
"Nicholas, you have changed. You are no longer the Nikolai I knew before. However, I have not changed. I still hope to act according to our previous rules."
Nicholas was overjoyed. Yes, he had indeed changed. Why did he always consider the interests of the navy instead of his own interests?
According to the previous rules, wouldn’t it be good for the saved money to go into his own pocket? Anyway, it’s just some rotten wood, mined by the Mingzhou Group themselves. They can get a warship with a modified power system for free without paying anything. This is already a big advantage. After this project, he also Being able to turn those rotten wood into cash and put it in your own pocket is a piece of cake in the sky.
“Yes, I have changed, Qin, you are right, we should follow our previous rules.” Nicholas nodded.
He did not come alone, there were many people around him, but now the two of them were playing riddles, and others had absolutely no idea what he meant by that.
On the majestic sea, a rusty warship is struggling to move forward with the help of two large tugboats. For it, this voyage is somewhat special.
Back then, it used to show off its power and pass by the eastern coastline arrogantly. It was so high-spirited back then, but now it has become decrepit. The front half of its hull is empty. That's because it has achieved vertical launch of all weapons. The front half is full of launchers, and only in the middle is the bridge. The tall bridge is extremely messy. The various large **** on it, and even the directly exposed arc antenna, are all telling its past. The tail A big hole appeared directly on the helicopter deck. That was because the nuclear reactor needed to be cut open.
Now, it can no longer sail on its own, and even its boiler has long since failed. It can only be carried by the tugboat in front. Its brick-red anti-rust paint deck has faded and is stained with rust. Only its huge body still stands proudly. It seems to be telling the glory of the past.
The giant ship of the red era, the 25,000-ton displacement Admiral Razaev, staggered on this refitting trip. I don’t know if it will be the end of its fate, or it will break out of its cocoon and be reborn!
In front of it, it was towing an ordinary tugboat, which was not very powerful. There was thick black smoke coming out of the chimney, and it was moving forward at full speed.
At the back, there is a giant red ship strolling around. This giant ship often appears on the world stage. It is the Nikolai Chikel, the most powerful rescue tugboat in the world!
In the Red Empire era, they were not proficient in everything. When it came to ocean rescue tugs, they turned to Finland for help and ordered two R-5757 ocean tugs. This kind of ship has a full load displacement of 7,500 tons and nearly two tons. With a power of 15,000 horsepower, it is the most powerful tugboat in the world.
Now it is at the back, of course not to tow the huge missile cruiser, but to slow down and brake when necessary to avoid hitting the tugboat in front. Especially when encountering a storm, its role will be even greater.
This is the second time it has come to the East. The first time was to tow the Varyag. Although several years have passed, the crew members still have fresh memories. This time, they continue to embark on the road to the East as another A witness to a major project.
Eastern, Mingzhou Group Guest House.
Many reporters have gathered in the hall. They all came after hearing the news. The warship that is about to be repaired this time is of great significance, even more than the 22350 frigate that has been launched. They want to get first-hand news.
“Dear journalists, welcome to Mingzhou.” When the voice sounded from the podium, they all became excited.
Mr. Qin, Mr. Qin is actually here!
Mr. Qin is busy with many things and rarely appears in the public eye. This time he actually took the initiative to come out. It is really not easy!
“Mr. Qin, the Frunze is coming all the way south. Is it coming to the Mingzhou Group?”
“Mr. Qin, does Mingzhou Group want to help transform the Frunze?”
“Mr. Qin, why didn’t Da Mao transform himself?”
The voices asking questions below were noisy and confusing.
“I know what everyone wants to ask, please don’t worry, I will answer them one by one.” After Qin Tao finished speaking, he glanced down, and these people quickly shut up.
“First of all, the Frunze is in the past tense. Now, it is called the Admiral Razaev. You should not continue to use the original ship name, because this will connote a Cold War mentality.”
How shrewd the reporter is, not using the name of the ship in the past means forgetting, indicating that Dongfang no longer cares about the past, but is looking to the future.
"As for the transformation of this warship, we only undertake a small amount of work. Specifically, it is the replacement of the power system. Everyone should know that our Dongfang currently has the most advanced naval gas turbine in the world, with an output power of 40 MW, two such engines are enough to drive a 25,000-ton warship to a high speed of 30 knots. Therefore, Damao commissioned us to transform the power system of the Type 1144 cruiser to rejuvenate this old ship. As for other weapon systems on this warship, they were improved by Da Mao himself."
Only modify the power system?
Considering that the 22350 frigate is only a shell, it is understandable. Da Mao will definitely not purchase Eastern products for key weapon systems, otherwise their own domestic military industry will shrink further. In terms of power systems, Da Mao really has no Technical reserves, after all, during the Red Empire era, their gas turbine production base was over there in Ermao.
“Aren’t you afraid of damaging regional peace by helping Mao renovate this warship?” A sharp voice sounded.
"Destroy the peace?" Qin Tao rolled his eyes at the reporter: "You have ulterior motives for asking the question. You will not be welcome at Mingzhou Group in the future! Security guard, get rid of him!"
What the hell, you still want to come here to cause trouble for me? Don’t even ask about the fate of those colleagues in the past!
This reporter was dumbfounded and was kicked out even if he disagreed? Are you too embarrassed? Seeing two burly security guards holding him back, he became furious: "You have no right to do this. I am an American! Freedom of the press!"
"Freedom? Okay, then have you reported on the civilians who were innocently bombed in 1999? Have you reported on the current military strength comparison in the Far East? Who is constantly destroying the peace here? If we help Mao renovate a warship, we are destroying the peace. ? Are you the only ones who act as the police of the world, and no one else has the ability to resist, so there is peace? You are just distorting the facts under the banner of press freedom. This is the kind of person we hate the most, get out of here!"
(End of this chapter)