Project 22870

Project 22870 is a class of rescue tugboats designed for the Russian Navy to perform towing, salvage, and firefighting operations. These vessels are equipped to support deep-sea diving operations, evacuate crews from distressed ships, and provide emergency medical assistance. They also feature capabilities for underwater survey work using remote-operated vehicles.

Developed by the Vympel Design Bureau, the Project 22870 tugs were designed to modernize the Russian Navy's auxiliary fleet. The lead vessel, SB-45, was laid down in 2011 and officially entered service with the Caspian Flotilla in 2014. Subsequent vessels have been deployed to the Black Sea and Northern Fleets, participating in various logistics and rescue operations. Notably, one vessel of this class, the Spasatel Vasily Bekh, was reportedly sunk by Ukrainian forces in June 2022 during the conflict in Ukraine.