[Mariner]

They are a naval power now, with the second (or third, behind Japan) best navy in the world. They sail in all regions at will.

When I sailed in the 80s we were taught to respect, if not fear them.

Their sub force alone gives them that status.

[Snickering Hound]

The 80's were a long time ago...

[Snickering Hound]

From looking around, the Russians had 2 Kilo diesel subs and a frigate in Tarsus.

One Kilo and the frigate and some support ships left port.

That against a half dozen Arleigh Burke’s and an unknown number of US/Brit/French subs.

[armourenthusiast]

"They are a naval power now, with the second (or third, behind Japan) best navy in the world. They sail in all regions at will. When I sailed in the 80s we were taught to respect, if not fear them. Their sub force alone gives them that status."

I think they have a few fine naval Kalibr cruise missiles. Not sure what condition the fleet is in though. I don't think Russian forces in Syria can go toe to toe with a reinforced carrier battle group and our land based air assets.

[Wallace T.]

When you were in the Navy we were facing the Soviet power that Brezhnev built. The Soviets, taking a page from Hitler, chose to focus on submarine warfare rather than take on the American and British fleets. Brezhnev wanted to build a blue water navy, as Kaiser Wilhelm did 60 years earlier.

[Destroyer Sailor]

Are you for real. The Russian navy can barely put a credible force at sea much less challenge the USN.

[Natufian]

As long as they’ve got some tugs to assist with mechanical failures.