The Baltic Fleet (E1): Russian stealth corvette and ‘black hole’ submarine get ready for a face-off

Russian Navy fleet corvette Soobrazitelny gets a new commander, captain lieutenant Aleksandr Slonov. Immediately, there are tensions between him and one of the ship’s junior lieutenants, Leonid Karakash. However, Slonov is determined to make Karakash change his ways. Meanwhile, the rest of the corvette’s crew begins preparation for a military exercise. They are to compete against the Magnitogorsk submarine under the command of Vladimir Nagornov and his crew. They only have 20 days to properly prepare. But first, the corvette’s new sailors must be initiated.

Russia’s Baltic Fleet was formed in 1703 under Peter the Great and is the oldest formation in the Russian Navy. Throughout its history, it has fought in many military conflicts, defending its country’s borders and perfecting its battle techniques. Today it boasts the most modern vessels, formidable weaponry and experienced seamen the Russian Navy has to offer. Meet the crews of two of its vessels, the corvette Soobrazitelny and the submarine Magnitogorsk, to learn more about life in the Baltic Fleet.

Joining the crew of Magnitogorsk, commanded by Captain Vladimir Nagornov, you'll find out about the procedures required for diving and surfacing, as well as certain superstitions shared by those on board. You'll also learn about the jobs required to keep the boat operational, how a submarine locates its targets covertly and discover more about the torpedoes it carries. 

Aleksandr Slonov, Commander of Soobrazitelny, and his crew will take you along to a military parade, give you a guided tour of the ship and explain how the corvette's missiles are launched. With marines joining its ranks, you'll get the opportunity to accompany them to an armoured vehicle test track, where you can pick up some tips about how to handle these impressively versatile vehicles.

In the end, the two crews will engage in a competition to determine which of them is the best-prepared and most skilled in military combat. Pick your side and may the best team win.

Watch this series in Russian