Two Russian naval vessels, RFS Smetlivy (801) - a Kashin mod. class (Project 61M) guider-missile destroyer - and RFS Epron - a Prut class (Project 572M) salvage/rescue tug, have sailed into Valletta Port (the Grand Harbour) today, at 0855LT and 1410LT respectively, on a courtesy visit.The two Russian vessels, from the Black Sea Fleet, are presently on deployment in the Mediterranean Sea to take part in Ioniex 2011 Russian-Italian naval exercise in early November. The Ioniex exercise is held every two years as part of the cooperation program between the Russian and Italian navies.
The two Russian vessels are presently berthing alongside each other (RFS Smetlivy alongside the quay) at Boiler Wharf in the French Creek. Both vessels are expected to sail from Valletta Port this Sunday, November 6th, at 0800/0900.
