The Seliger was designed to conduct research missions for the Navy, including deepwater operations. Research ship Seliger was developed by Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau. The primary mission of the class is to conduct hydrographic and oceanographic surveys, as well as research activities in deep waters. The vessels can also perform search-and-rescue of sunken objects, and inspection of underwater communications and pipelines to eliminate breakdowns.

The ship are designed according to the KM Ice 2 – Arc 5 1 AUT 1 FF2 WS class notation of the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping. The ship’s ice strengthening hull allows for navigation through open ice. The ship displacement is 1,040 tons; length is 60.6 meters; beam is 10.8 meters; full speed is 13.5 knots; operating range is 1,000 nautical miles; complement is 25 men. The wheelhouse is located amidships with an antenna mast on top of it. The antenna mast is fitted with marine radars and navigation and communication systems to ensure safe operation at sea. The ships carry a number of advanced research and ocean survey equipment, including an ARS-600 autonomous underwater search-and-rescue vehicle to search for underwater objects at greater depths. The vehicles can be launched and recovered at the stern using cranes. The vessels are also fitted with acoustic equipment, an RT-2500 unmanned underwater vehicle, and diving complex with pressure chamber to perform oceanographic research operations in deep waters.

Research ship Seliger laid down 08 July 2009 at the Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad (yard No.01601), launched 29 July 2011, commissioned 25 December 2012 and was assigned to the Black Sea Fleet.

Now in service.