Project 1833 "Berezina" – Soviet Fleet Replenishment Ship


Commissioned in the late 1970s, Berezina was the only vessel of Project 1833 — a unique Soviet fleet replenishment ship designed to support surface combatants with fuel, ammunition, food, and technical equipment during extended operations at sea. Combining the roles of supply ship and light escort, she was heavily armed for her class and operated alongside major naval task forces.


Throughout the Cold War, Berezina served in both the Northern and Black Sea Fleets, taking part in numerous long-range deployments, including Mediterranean cruises, Atlantic patrols, and joint exercises with Warsaw Pact navies. Her presence symbolized the Soviet Navy’s blue-water ambitions and capability to sustain operations far from home ports.


Decommissioned in the early 2000s, Berezina remains a rare example of a fully integrated supply-combat vessel — a floating rear base, built to serve the fleet on the front lines of geopolitical tension.