New Russian Navy Search and Rescue Ship Enters Service

The Russian Navy Pacific Fleet has put their newest deep-water search and rescue vehicle – Bester-1 into service.

The vehicle completed state trials in November 2015 and is now waiting for the search and rescue ship Igor Belousov to arrive at the Pacific Fleet base in Vladivostok, Russia, Naval Today reported Monday.

Until it embarks on Igor Belousov, Bester-1 will be performing tasks onboard Alagez, a submarine search and rescue vehicle, and other vessels of the fleet.

According to the Russian Navy, Bester-1 deep can be submerged to a depth of 700 meters and is fitted with newest automated control systems.

The crew of the rescue ship Igor Belousov will make the transition to Vladivostok later this year after passing ashore and at-sea trials.