Kyiv: In a startling turn of events in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Kyiv has asserted that it utilized sea drones to sink a small Russian warship in the Black Sea. This escalation comes amidst accusations from Moscow, alleging Ukraine’s involvement in the downing of a Russian military transport plane with US-made missiles, resulting in the loss of 74 lives.
The Ukrainian military intelligence agency, known as GUR, released footage purportedly showing naval drones attacking the Russian missile-armed corvette Ivanovets. The video depicts multiple drones crashing into the vessel and exploding, leading to its sinking. According to GUR, the attack occurred on Lake Donuzlav in western Crimea, where the ship was on patrol. Private security firm Ambrey reported that Ukraine deployed up to six sea drones, each carrying approximately 300 kilograms (660 pounds) of explosives, in the assault.
Further details emerged from a CNN report, with a drone pilot involved in the operation revealing that ten “MAGURA” drones were deployed, resulting in six successful hits on the Russian vessel. These compact drones, powered by jet skis and boasting an impressive range of nearly 800 kilometers (nearly 500 miles), have significantly extended Ukraine’s strike capability along its coastline, particularly targeting sites within Crimea.
Describing the precision required in controlling the drones, the pilot likened it to “jeweler’s work”, underscoring the meticulous nature of the operation.
Backing the Ukrainian account, a Western official stated it was “highly likely” that uncrewed surface vessels were responsible for the strike on the Ivanovets. These Ukrainian attacks on Russian aircraft and ships in the Black Sea have reportedly pushed Moscow’s naval forces back, allowing Kyiv to increase its crucial exports through southern ports. However, the presence of any unexploded drones poses a potential threat to Black Sea shipping.
Ukraine’s army chief, Gen Valerii Zaluznhyi, emphasized the significance of unmanned weapons systems in the conflict. In an opinion piece published by CNN, Zaluzhnyi outlined the challenges faced by Ukraine, including the need to mobilize more soldiers and address production bottlenecks in ammunition. He highlighted three key areas of focus for Ukraine in 2024: enhancing its armed forces with high-tech assets, adapting its training and warfare philosophy, and mastering new combat capabilities swiftly.
The developments come amidst rumors of a purported rift between Gen. Zaluznhyi and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscoring the complexities within Ukraine’s leadership amid the ongoing conflict.
