[Coming soon] Project 61M: Missiles, Torpedoes, and Autocannons!

Historical Note

The Kashin-class destroyers (Project 61) were the world’s first series-produced combat ships powered by a gas turbine propulsion system. The modernized version, known as the Kashin-Modified class (Project 61M), was developed to enhance air defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The lead ship of this subclass, Ognevoy, entered service with the Black Sea Fleet in 1964. In total, 20 Kashin-class destroyers were built, serving across all four fleets of the Soviet Navy. The Kashin-Modified vessels took part in numerous combat deployments in the Mediterranean and Atlantic, shadowed NATO ships, and maintained combat readiness patrols throughout various regions of the world’s oceans.

Despite certain shortcomings, the Kashin-Modified destroyers (Project 61M) remained in service until the 1990s, with some vessels still serving in the navies of other nations today.

Pr. 61M (Rank VI)

SWOT Analysis

• Strengths: Equipped with “Termit” anti-ship missiles, “Volna” anti-air missiles, rapid-firing 76 mm guns, torpedoes, and capable of high speed.
• Weaknesses: Low survivability; “Termit” missiles are launched from the stern.
• Opportunities: One of the most powerful missile ships in the game, capable of inflicting massive damage on all types of enemy vessels.
• Threats: Vulnerable to concentrated enemy fire, especially if the captain fails to use countermeasures effectively.

In Battle

The main armament of Project 61M consists of the new “Termit” anti-ship missiles. While massive and slow to reload, these missiles deliver colossal damage. The ship is equipped with four single launchers, two on each side. However, it’s important to note that due to their placement, the “Termit” missiles launch toward the stern.

The secondary missile armament consists of “Volna” anti-air missiles, already familiar to experienced fleet commanders. Each salvo includes four missiles. While the “Volna” deals less damage than the “Termit,” it is significantly faster.

In addition to its missile systems, Project 61M is equipped with two twin AK-726 dual-purpose automatic gun mounts. The ship also features a rotating quintuple torpedo launcher firing 533-mm torpedoes.

The gas turbine propulsion system reduces displacement and delivers excellent performance. Despite its large size, Project 61M handles remarkably well and quickly reaches one of the highest top speeds in the game. This mobility allows for a wide range of tactics, from cautious, cover-based engagements to aggressive pushes.

The main drawback of Project 61M, like most missile ships in the game, is its low survivability. Its lack of substantial armor and relatively large size make it an easy target for any enemy that secures a target lock. Commanders must maneuver skillfully, effectively utilize countermeasures and cover, and do everything possible to avoid taking hits.

Premium version of the Pr. 61M (Rank VI)

In the Ship Campaign, only one ship can be taken into battle. Because of this, the Premium version of any ship is not a separate unit, but it completely replaces the standard “gray” version. After obtaining the premium version, the blueprints for the standard version of the ship will disappear from the store and trophies, and the ship itself will become unavailable in trophies and jackpots.

Differences between the Premium and Standard versions:

• the ability to get gold after a battle, according to the daily limit;
• unique premium camouflage;
• fully unlocked upgrades in the Arsenal;
• the ship gets the maximum crew level immediately.

*Vehicle specifications and camouflages are still work in progress and may differ on release.

The Pr. 61M (Rank VI) can be obtained in War Thunder Mobile (WTM) from Medium or Big Trophies in the Ship Campaign with the start of the new Season.