The Russian warship on patrol in the Gulf of Aden does not distinguish vessels by their nationality if it is called to fend off a pirate attack, said commanding officer Captain Oleg Gurinov.

To watch RT's interview with Oleg Gurinov, please follow the link.

The ship Neustrashimy (Fearless) and her supply tanker Elnya reached the troubled area off the Somali coast in October to join the international force dealing with the increasing number of pirate attacks.

The frigate convoys civilian freighters and so far has completed six runs. She uses the Yemen port city of Aden for supplies and shore leave.

“The Yemeni people’s attitude is very positive. It’s very important that we help build good relation between Russia and Yemen,” said Gurinov.

According to Gurinov, convoying is very effective in deterring pirate attacks, since they are not capable to defend themselves against an armed military vessel. Neustrashimy can send the combat helicopter Ka-27 if a distress call is received from a nearby vessel.

Gurinov said: “If any ship in the region calls as and asks for our help, we do it whatever her flag or nationality.”

Oleg Gurinov explains the ship doesnot use most of her arsenal, which includes missiles, air defence guns, torpedoes and grenade launchers, against pirates.

“Automatic guns and small arms are enough. These weapons are very efficient, and warships of other nations also use them against pirates,” he said.

He stressed that Neustrashimy will only open fire in response to an obvious attack and is not authorised to police the region or attack suspicious vessels.

The warship will continue its mission for at least a month.

The frigate Neustrashimy of the Russian Baltic fleet was built at the Yantar shipbuilding factory in Kaliningrad. She is 129.8 metres long, has a displacement of up to 4,350 tonnes and has a cruising speed of 30 knots (55 kph). It has a crew of 210, including 35 officers.