The Soviet designation was "Storozhevoi Korabl`" (Сторожевой Корабль - Sentry Ship) Project 159.

They were the first gas turbine-powered ships in the Soviet Navy.

The role of these ships was anti-submarine warfare in shallow waters and they were similar to the Mirka-class frigates.

The specification (TTZ in Russian) was issued in 1955 and design approved in 1956.

A comprehensive sonar suite including VDS was fitted.