Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited the research and production facility of the St. Petersburg State Marine Technical University (SPbGMTU), colloquially known as `Korabelka`. This important visit took place during his working trip to St. Petersburg on Navy Day, underscoring the strategic significance of the university`s contributions to Russia`s naval and industrial capabilities.
The Scientific and Production Complex (RPC) operates as a key component of the university`s largest scientific and technological division, the Institute of Laser and Welding Technologies (ILIST). Notably, between 2022 and 2023, postgraduate students and young specialists at the RPC successfully achieved full import substitution for all critical components of direct laser deposition systems. This significant achievement highlights Russia`s commitment to self-reliance and technological independence in crucial industrial sectors.
The RPC`s clientele includes major entities such as `Rosatom` (State Atomic Energy Corporation), `Roscosmos` (State Space Corporation), `ODK` (United Engine Corporation), and various enterprises in gas turbine and transport machine-building. The complex manages the entire lifecycle of operations: from designing, manufacturing, setting up, and testing equipment for large-scale additive production, to developing technologies, producing items, and assembling large structures utilizing these components. This comprehensive approach ensures cutting-edge solutions for high-tech industries.
The President was accompanied during his visit by several high-ranking officials, including his assistants Alexey Dyumin, Nikolay Patrushev, and Andrey Fursenko, as well as St. Petersburg Governor Alexander Beglov and Minister of Education Valery Falkov. Their presence emphasized the cross-departmental importance of the facility`s work and the government`s support for scientific and industrial development.
Rupert Blackwood 
Clement Ashworth