The upgrade work on Russia's only aircraft carrier will begin this month, Russian Navy Deputy Commander-in-Chief Viktor Bursuk said.

Admiral Kuznetsov will be equipped with new shipborne Pantsyr surface-to-air missile system as well as new flight control systems. The carrier's power-generating equipment will also be replaced by new boilers. The modernization work is expected to be completed by 2021.

The 305-metre long carrier can accommodate up to 30 MiG-29K/KUB and Su-33 fighter jets, and also Ka-52K attack helicopters and Ka-27 and Ka-29 anti-submarine warfare helos.