CBD-1804

• Origins: CBD-1804 is a designation commonly used for a Russian Navy auxiliary vessel, specifically a floating crane or support ship, with its roots in the Soviet era fleet construction programs. • Construction: The vessel was built in the early 1980s at the renowned shipyards in the Soviet Union, reflecting the industrial might of the era. • Role: CBD-1804 serves as a floating crane, primarily supporting submarine and surface ship maintenance, salvage operations, and heavy lifting tasks in naval bases. • Design: The ship is equipped with a powerful crane capable of lifting several hundred tons, making it essential for handling submarine components and heavy naval equipment. • Deployments: Over its service life, CBD-1804 has been stationed at various strategic naval bases, including those on the Kola Peninsula and in the Pacific Fleet. • Chernobyl Connection: Ships of this class, including CBD-1804, were reportedly involved in transporting materials and equipment during the Chernobyl disaster cleanup efforts, showcasing their versatility beyond naval operations. • Modernization: In the 2000s, CBD-1804 underwent a series of upgrades to its lifting gear and onboard systems, ensuring continued service in the modern Russian Navy. • Joint Exercises: The vessel has participated in joint naval exercises, assisting in the recovery and deployment of underwater vehicles, demonstrating international cooperation in maritime operations. • Survivor of the Cold War: As one of the few surviving auxiliary vessels from the Cold War era, CBD-1804 represents the longevity and durability of Soviet naval engineering. • Nicknames: Among naval personnel, CBD-1804 and its sister ships are often affectionately referred to as “the Iron Giants” due to their size, rugged construction, and reliability in heavy-duty tasks.