Nikolai Patrushev, Assistant to the Russian President and Chairman of the Maritime Board, visited the Pacific Fleet frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov at the Port of Muscat in Oman. During his visit, the head of the Maritime Board praised the high level of professionalism displayed by the sailors in executing the missions set by the country's leadership.
The frigate arrived in Muscat after 119 days at sea and over 15,000 nautical miles to demonstrate the Russian naval flag, strengthen military cooperation, replenish supplies, and allow the crew to rest, according to the Maritime Board’s press service. Onboard the vessel, Patrushev met with Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy Vladimir Vorobyov, the ship's command, and the crew, as well as representatives from Oman’s naval forces and government ministries.
"I am pleased to visit the frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov, which worthily represents the Russian flag in the distant waters of the Indian Ocean," Patrushev told the crew. "This ship and its experienced crew are rightly considered among the most exemplary in the Russian fleet. That is why you are entrusted with numerous responsible missions across various regions of the World Ocean. You fulfill the tasks set by the country's leadership with dignity and high professionalism."
The presidential assistant noted that the frigate's long-distance voyages serve as convincing proof that Russia remains a great maritime power. "Over the hundreds of years of the Russian fleet's existence, our sailors have traversed every sea and ocean on the globe," Patrushev stated. "Thanks to their courage, our country's flag has always been respected worldwide. I wish for you to continue and build upon these glorious traditions with dignity."
Patrushev also highlighted the role of the Sultanate of Oman, noting it is not the first time the country has hosted a Russian frigate. "I am confident that the glorious Marshal Shaposhnikov and its gallant crew will enter Omani harbors many more times to work alongside Omani sailors in the Indian Ocean, ensuring peace and stability there. I wish the commander and the entire crew further success in their service and thank our Omani friends for the warm welcome," he concluded.
After departing Muscat, the ship will continue its mission and participate in the Russian-Indian "Milan-2026" exercises in the Bay of Bengal. As part of these maneuvers, the frigate is scheduled to make an informal port call at Visakhapatnam, India, between February 18 and 25, 2026.
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Photo: Official website of the President of the Russian Federation
Based on materials from TASS