Zvezda 1:100 Russian brig 'Mercury'"

The 20-gun brig 'Mercury' was laid down in Sevastopol in 1819. Shipbuilder I.Ya. Osminin designed 'Mercury' as a special ship for guarding the Caucasian coast and performing patrol duties. 'Mercury' could sail both under sails and with oars. On May 14 (26), 1829, during the Russo-Turkish War, three Russian ships - the frigate 'Shtandart', the brigs 'Orpheus' and 'Mercury' were on patrol near the Bosphorus and spotted a Turkish squadron of 14 ships. The enemy squadron pursued the Russian ships. Shtandart" and "Orpheus" quickly broke away from the pursuit, while "Mercury" under the command of Captain-Lieutenant A.I. Kazarsky engaged in battle with the best ships of the Turkish squadron, the 110-gun "Selimiye" and the 74-gun "Real-bey". "Mercury", using oars and skillfully maneuvering, expertly dodged volleys, firing at the masts and sails of the enemy ships. This unprecedented unequal battle in history lasted about four hours. "Selimiye" and "Real-Bey" sustained critical damage, which prevented them from continuing to pursue Mercury.Mercury" received 22 hits to the hull, more than 300 to the sails, rigging, and masts, but managed to rejoin its squadron. The crew of "Mercury" was awarded, and the brig itself received a commemorative St. George flag and pennant.