Vladimir Putin’s plan to construct a massive 100,000-ton aircraft carrier is part of an effort to reestablish Russia as a leading naval power, competing with the United States and China. This ambitious vision is championed by retired Vice Admiral Vladimir Pepelyaev, who advocates for an aircraft carrier with a displacement of 70 to 90 thousand tons, equipped with a naval variant of the Su-57 combat jet.
Pepelyaev stresses the importance of aircraft carriers for power projection and national security in today’s complex geopolitical environment. He suggests that the Russian Navy needs at least four aircraft carriers—two for the Pacific Fleet and two for the Northern Fleet—to maintain a strong naval presence in key regions. However, Russia’s struggling defense industry, economic challenges, and international sanctions cast doubt on the feasibility of this ambition.
Historically, Russia’s only aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, has been plagued by operational issues. Despite plans for modernization, its future remains uncertain. Russia, known for its powerful and diverse submarine fleet, lacks the aircraft carriers essential for global power projection. The proposed 100,000-ton supercarrier, comparable to the US’s USS Gerald R. Ford, seems a distant goal due to financial and technical constraints.
Critics argue that the plan is unrealistic given Russia’s current capabilities and economic situation. The comparison to historical grandiose projects, such as Hitler’s unrealized dream of Germania, highlights the improbability of Russia achieving its carrier ambitions. The development of a naval variant of the Su-57 fighter jet is part of this ambitious but currently unattainable vision.
Despite these challenges, some Russian leaders continue to push for a strong naval presence, envisioning a fleet that can rival the world’s greatest naval powers. However, without significant advancements in technology, resources, and economic stability, these aspirations are likely to remain unfulfilled.
