Ukraine has taken a significant step forward in its maritime warfare capabilities with the introduction of unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), which are now capable of launching aerial drones. These $250,000 unmanned vessels are enhancing Ukraine’s combat operations, providing a new tool in the fight against Russian forces. The drones not only strike naval targets but also extend their reach by attacking Russian ground positions, highlighting the growing potential for multi-layered robotic warfare.
The Ukrainian navy debuted this technology last month, carrying out a successful raid on Russian-occupied oil platforms in the Black Sea. The 18-foot drone boats were equipped with multiple first-person-view (FPV) drones, each carrying explosive payloads. These FPV drones, which have a range of about five miles and weigh only a few pounds, provided the boats with a new land-attack capability.
The effectiveness of the new system was demonstrated when the UAVs destroyed Russian surveillance equipment and personnel on the platforms. The Ukrainian navy continued to refine the technology, with additional successful strikes in January against Russian air-defense vehicles along the Crimean coast, resulting in the destruction of at least three vehicles.
This development is part of Ukraine’s broader maritime strategy, which has already been successful in challenging Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. Previous USV operations have led to the sinking of multiple Russian ships, including a corvette, a landing ship, a patrol boat, and a tugboat. The strategic Kerch bridge, vital for Russia’s military supply lines, has also been damaged during these operations.
The technology behind these vessels has evolved rapidly, with recent upgrades including defensive armaments like guns and anti-aircraft missiles. In a historic achievement, a Ukrainian USV successfully shot down a Russian helicopter around New Year’s Eve. Looking ahead, Ukrainian forces are planning even more advanced configurations of this system. With drones already being launched from aerial “motherships,” Ukraine may soon deploy the same technology from its USVs, which would result in a new generation of “drone drone carriers.”
This innovative approach to maritime warfare provides Ukraine with a cost-effective way to maintain combat capabilities despite limited access to traditional naval assets. The closure of the Bosporus strait to warships has restricted Ukraine’s naval options, but these USVs have proven to be a valuable alternative. Although the loss rates of these vessels are high due to Russian defences, they have nonetheless contributed to the Russian Black Sea Fleet losing approximately one-third of its pre-war vessels.
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