The crab catcher "Captain Zhitnikov" was launched in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      On March 31, 2026, at 07:30, the head vessel of the project SSa5712LS – the live crab catcher "Captain Zhitnikov" – was launched in the Nizhny Novgorod region, reported the press service of JSC "Okskaya Shipyard."

      The vessel is being built on behalf of the Russian Crab Group as part of the first phase of the state program for investment quotas. This is the first of 13 vessels of this type that are planned to be handed over to the fishing industry.

      Representatives of the industry, regional authorities, and local residents participated in the launch ceremony.

      Igor Vinnikov, the first deputy general director of the shipyard, noted that the creation of the vessel was the result of the work of a large team. According to him, the project was realized thanks to the professionalism of the employees and cooperation with the customer, which allowed for finding solutions to complex issues.

      Acting Chairman of the Regional Duma Alexey Antonov emphasized that shipbuilding continues to develop despite sanctions. "Such projects are the foundation of the country's food stability and a source of pride for the Nizhny Novgorod region," he said.

      Also present at the ceremony was Rustam Dosayev, deputy chairman of the Transport Committee of the Regional Duma and a supporter of the United Russia party. He stated that the shipyard is one of the largest taxpayers in the region and is among the leaders in crab catcher production.

      "Very soon, the 'Captain Zhitnikov' will go to work, and our enterprise will continue to fulfill orders for the largest customers who made the right choice by placing their orders with us," the parliamentarian added.

      The godmother of the vessel was Elena Dyagileva, a senator from the Murmansk region. By tradition, she broke a bottle of champagne against the hull and wished the crew successful work.

      The "Captain Zhitnikov" is designed for operation in the harsh conditions of the Bering, Okhotsk, and Japanese seas. The vessel is 57.7 meters long, 12.6 meters wide, and has a main engine power of 1620 kW. It is designed to carry up to 120 tons of live crab.

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