Kotlin-class

The Kotlin class, designated Project 56 Spokoiny, was a series of destroyers constructed for the Soviet Navy between 1955 and 1958. Developed as a successor to the Neustrashimy class, the design was intended to be smaller and faster than the preceding class to facilitate series production. While the Soviet government originally planned to build 100 vessels, the program was reduced following the introduction of guided missiles. A total of 27 vessels were completed to the Project 56 specification, while four others were finished as the Kildin class.

The vessels utilized geared steam turbines and were equipped with sensors including air search radar, surface search radar, and sonar. Throughout their service life, the ships underwent various modifications. Eleven vessels were updated to the Project 56PLO configuration, which replaced original depth charge throwers with rocket depth charge launchers to update anti-submarine capabilities. Another variant, Project 56K, served as a test platform for the navalized S-125 Neva surface-to-air missile system. This installation featured a dual-arm launcher, an under-deck magazine, and the Yatagan fire control radar. Following these trials, the Soviet Navy retrofitted seven additional vessels to the Project 56A standard to carry these guided missiles.

The class entered service in 1955 and remained active through the late 1980s. The Soviet Navy operated the majority of the vessels, with one ship, Spravedlivy, transferred to the Polish Navy in 1970. Renamed ORP Warszawa, this vessel was the only Project 56 destroyer exported. The class was decommissioned and scrapped between 1987 and 1992. The Kotlin design later served as the basis for the Kildin class and provided design concepts for the Chinese Luda class.