Yes, Russia does possess hovercraft, specifically operating vessels of the Zubr-class.
Russia's Hovercraft Fleet
The Russian Navy utilizes hovercraft for various military operations, primarily for amphibious assault and transport. Among the most notable in their inventory are the Zubr-class Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC), which are among the world's largest air-cushioned landing craft.
These formidable vessels are designed for high-speed transport and landing of naval assault troops and military equipment, including main battle tanks, on unequipped shores. Their air-cushion design allows them to traverse land, ice, and shallow waters with ease, making them highly versatile for coastal operations.
Zubr-Class Hovercraft in the Russian Navy
Currently, the Russian Navy operates a number of Zubr-class hovercraft. As of recent data, two vessels of this class remain in service with the Russian fleet, forming a key component of their amphibious capabilities. In total, ten Zubr-class hovercraft are in active service globally across various navies.
| Operator | Number of Zubr-class LCACs |
|---|---|
| Russian Navy | 2 |
| Hellenic Navy | 4 |
| Other Operators | 4 (Unspecified in this context) |
The presence of these advanced hovercraft underscores Russia's strategic interest in maintaining robust amphibious assault capabilities, allowing for rapid deployment and landing operations across diverse geographical conditions.
For more detailed information on this impressive class of vessels, you can explore resources like the Zubr-class LCAC Wikipedia page.
