The Soviet Navy's ship construction program began immediately after the end of World War II in 1941-1945
The soviet shipbuilding industry constructed and passed to the Soviet Navy 14 light gun cruisers under 68bis project in the early 50-ies of the last century. The 12th cruiser of this series got the name of the great Russian commander Mikhail Illarionovich Kutuzov, Field-Marshal-General, hero of the Patriotic War of 1812.
The 68bis project cruisers were born in the era of the scientific and technological revolution and the rapid development of rocket and artillery weapons. The excellent combat and operational qualities of these cruisers have been confirmed in all fleets, during numerous campaigns and exercises.
Many post-war ships of the 68bis project had the opportunity to prove themselves in a peaceful field. Thus, the cruiser Mikhail Kutuzov made a "political career" for himself and became a meeting place at the highest level. His guests over the years have been Indonesian President Sukarno, Egyptian President Abdel Nasser, King Haile Selassie I of Ethiopia, the Shah of Iran and his wife, and other powerful people.
