This book is a history of the class of light cruisers that by default became a major part of WW2 Soviet navy - in the lack of heavier ships and total absence of aircraft carriers. Includes detailed information on development, construction and combat deployment of these Kirov class cruisers. Four of these vessels were involved in heavy fighting throughout the Patriotic War, occasionally suffering serious damage but always returning to duty and providing important fire support to Soviet ground forces. Two of them - the Kirov and the Maxim Gorkiy - played important role in the defense of Leningrad.

The book contains a wealth of information for WW 2 naval historian and model builder. Many of the photos are published for the first time.

The only remaining copy we have is in brand new condition, but shows minor amount of shelf wear to the cover.