Ukraine Makes History by Striking Russian Submarine with Underwater Drone

Post by : Raina Nasser

In a groundbreaking development, Ukraine has successfully targeted a Russian Kilo-class attack submarine with underwater drones, as confirmed by Ukrainian officials on Monday. The operation, led by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) featuring its innovative "Sub Sea Baby" drones, struck the submarine while docked at Novorossiysk, a significant base for Russia’s Black Sea fleet. In a strategic move, numerous Russian naval assets were relocated to this port for protection against Ukrainian strikes.

Video footage released by the SBU captured a dramatic explosion occurring near the submarine and other naval vessels at the pier. Reuters has verified the authenticity of this footage by comparing it with the known layout of facilities at Novorossiysk. Alexander Kamyshin, an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, noted on social media platform X that this incident marks a historic first wherein an underwater drone has successfully neutralized a submarine.

With a limited naval fleet, Ukraine has turned to sea drones and long-range missiles to contest the might of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. The targeted diesel-electric submarine is known to carry at least four Kalibr cruise missiles and has been pivotal in Russia’s recent offensive strikes that have severely impacted Ukraine's power infrastructure. Following repeated attacks on Russian forces in Sevastopol, the submarine was relocated from Crimea as a precaution.

The Ukrainian navy referred to this strike as a “turning point” in the ongoing maritime conflict with Russia. Dmytro Pletenchuk, a spokesperson for the navy, emphasized that such a successful hit on a submarine represents a significant evolution in naval combat capabilities. He indicated that repairing the damaged submarine would be a formidable challenge, necessitating above-water maintenance, which leaves the vessel open to additional assaults. This incident marks the loss of one of four submarines stationed in Novorossiysk, of which three are equipped with Kalibr missiles.

This operation occurs against the backdrop of delicate peace negotiations mediated by the U.S., amid fears in Ukraine of potential pressure to accept compromises affecting national sovereignty. By showcasing its ability to inflict damage on high-value Russian naval assets, Ukraine bolsters its negotiating position and underscores its commitment to territorial defense.

In recent months, Ukraine has notably ramped up operations against Russian military, energy, and industrial targets, utilizing advanced drone and missile technologies to counteract Russia’s superiority. The success of the "Sub Sea Baby" drones in Novorossiysk points to Ukraine's advancing capabilities in underwater warfare and marks a critical development in the protracted conflict within the Black Sea region.