One of the most important current domestic shipbuilding infrastructure projects being developed in the interests of the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) is the floating dock Project 24012. The dock has been named “Vladimir Emelyanov” and is being built using a distributed shipyard method. Individual blocks are fabricated at multiple locations and subsequently transported and integrated into a single structure at the final assembly yard. This method enables the expedition of the construction of large facilities while using shipbuilding capabilities in various regions of the country.
Technical Specifications and Lifting Capacity
Project 24012 is a steel floating lifting-and-transfer dock that boasts impressive dimensions. It has a breadth of 62 meters, a dock deck that is approximately 177.6 meters in length, and an overall length of approximately 189.6 meters. The maximum immersion depth is approximately 20.64 meters, while the side height is approximately 24.3 meters. The dock’s hoisting capacity is 25,000 tonnes, and the standard operating crew is anticipated to be approximately 21 personnel. This dock is capable of accepting and launching large offshore structures and ship hulls due to the above parameters.
The dock’s lifting capacity and geometry allow it to accommodate vessels and sections that are up to 250 meters in length and 48 meters in width. This substantially enhances the slipway and mooring capabilities of Severnaya Verf and other USC enterprises. In practical terms, the dock will be capable of launching large-tonnage hulls, lifting ships for repair and anti-corrosion work, and moving enormous blocks and sections within the shipyard’s water area.
Design, Construction Method, and Distributed Shipyard Concept
Project 24012 was developed on the basis of a technical design by the Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau. The Southern Center for Shipbuilding and Ship Repair (SCSSR) is currently manufacturing the structures at a number of facilities, including the Krasnye Barrikady facility and the Astrakhan Shipbuilding Production Association (ASPO). The distributed shipyard method entails the production of individual semi-blocks and sections at various facilities, which are subsequently transported to the integrating yard for final assembly and outfitting.
Several semi-blocks have been completed under the initiative, according to recent reports. Five and later eight out of eleven units were identified as being in the process of being formed at various stages. Foundations for equipment and pipeline supports are being installed, pipefitting and mechanical works are currently underway, and the blocks are undergoing both internal and external painting. This segmented production cycle facilitates the efficient allocation of resources across the participating facilities and ensures the continuity of work.
Functional Role and Advantages for Shipyards
The floating dock Project 24012 is primarily responsible for the launch of large ships and offshore structures, as well as the lifting of vessels for dock inspections, restorations, painting, and corrosion protection of underwater hull sections. Furthermore, the dock is designed to facilitate internal shipyard transport and logistics, facilitating the movement of massive blocks and hulls along the outfitting quay between slipways and completion areas.
The dock is a critical logistical asset due to its adaptability, which eliminates the necessity for external lifting resources or extended berthing at restricted quay space. Furthermore, a shipyard’s competitiveness in both domestic and international markets is enhanced by the presence of a modern floating port. Shipyards are able to attract more complex orders, reduce operational risks associated with transportation and block integration, and shorten construction timelines by being able to manage large-tonnage projects. This is a strategic strengthening of the production basis of Severnaya Verf and related enterprises.
Logistics and Commissioning Timeline
The launch of the dock sections and their delivery to Severnaya Verf were previously scheduled for specific phases, with the final assembly of the hull to occur at the integrating shipyard in Saint Petersburg, as per official statements. The completion of outfitting and commissioning work is currently anticipated to take place in the autumn of 2027, although the exact dates may be changed based on weather conditions, equipment deliveries, and logistics.
The logistics of transporting large semi-blocks necessitate meticulous planning, from the fabrication of the blocks at southern Russian shipyards to the towing and sea transport to the integration site. In practice, this includes the coordination with port authorities along the route, the use of tugboats and auxiliary vessels, and maritime passages. Logistics remains a critical factor that influences the overall schedule, despite the fact that modern lifting and transport equipment and experienced personnel help minimize risks.
Naming and Socio-Economic Impact
The floating dock was named in honor of Vladimir Alexandrovich Emelyanov, a veteran of the Great Patriotic War and a Hero of Socialist Labor. This designation underscores the industry’s legendary professionals and the continuity with Russian shipbuilding traditions. In addition to its symbolic significance, this type of naming contributes to the development of a corporate identity and instills a sense of pride in the shipyard employees.
The implementation of Project 24012 has a sizable multiplier effect from an economic standpoint. It generates employment opportunities during the construction and subsequent operation of the dock, engages subcontractors for equipment and pipeline fabrication, and ensures consistent workloads for the production facilities of the Southern Center and Astrakhan shipyards. In the long term, this strengthens the shipbuilding cluster, promotes the localization of supplies, and increases the self-sufficiency of Russian shipbuilding in the execution of large-tonnage projects.
Operational and Technical Obstacles
Technical challenges are inevitable for initiatives of this magnitude, despite their apparent benefits. These include the installation of powerful hoisting systems, the guarantee of long-term corrosion resistance of the steel structure, the conduct of buoyancy and stability tests after assembly, and the assurance of precision in the joining of large semi-blocks. Both the development and testing of emergency response procedures during lifting and launching operations, as well as certification in accordance with safety and seaworthiness requirements, are equally critical.
All of these components necessitate meticulous planning during the design phase and close collaboration during the construction and commissioning phases. The dock’s reliability and efficacy throughout its entire service life will be contingent upon the successful resolution of these challenges.
Conclusion: The Importance of Project 24012 for the Industry
Floating dock Project 24012 is not purely a single infrastructure asset; it is a strategic capability that will considerably improve Russia’s docking capacity, expand the production potential of shipyards, and facilitate the faster and higher-quality execution of large shipbuilding and repair projects. Its dimensions and lifting capacity are specifically designed to meet the requirements of contemporary shipbuilding, encompassing both military hulls and vast civilian or industrial structures.
The endeavor is progressing steadily, as evidenced by recent reports on block fabrication and assembly. One of the main components of USC’s dock construction program and a cornerstone of future large-scale shipbuilding operations, Project 24012 is scheduled for commissioning by the end of 2027, subject to potential adjustments.