MOSCOW, September 16 (Sputnik) — Argentine sailors have arrived at the Russian Northern Fleet to pick up four ice-class tugboats, the fleet’s spokesman said Wednesday.
"The main purpose of the visit of the Argentine sailors to Russia is the reception of four ice-class tugboats of the Neftegaz type, purchased for the coast guard of the republic," Capt. 1st Rank Vadim Serga said.
According to Serga, the vessels are currently in the ports of Murmansk and Arkhangelsk.
"After the tugboats are transferred to Argentina, they will be used to patrol the Antarctic waters, as well as in rescue operations and [to transport] material and technical provisions for the Argentine navy," Serga added.
The Argentine Defense Ministry announced the purchase of the vessels last December. According to local media reports, Buenos Aires paid $8.17 million for the tugboats.
