Ukraine strikes Russian submarine with underwater drones
In a historic first, the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) successfully attacked a Russian submarine with underwater drones in the port of Novorossiysk, Russia, leaving the vessel critically damaged and effectively out of service. The Ukrainian-made Sub Sea Baby
drones struck a Project 636.3 Varshavyanka class submarine (NATO designation: Kilo), according to multiple reports.
Background
The attack, which took place on Dec. 15, marks the first time in naval warfare history that underwater drones have been used to strike a submarine. The Ukrainian SBU's Sub Sea Baby
drones were deployed against the Russian vessel docked at a Black Sea naval base.
Key Developments
Kyiv claims that the submarine, worth approximately $2.5 billion, was hit and disabled in the attack. The strike was part of Ukraine's ongoing efforts to demonstrate its ability to counter Russian military assets, even in the face of Moscow's increasing military presence in the Black Sea region.
However, Moscow denies the extent of the damage caused by the attack. According to Al Jazeera English, Kyiv claims that the Kilo-class submarine is knocked out of operation in the first such attack using Sea Baby drones.
Footage released by the SBU appears to show the aftermath of the attack, but the extent of the damage is not clear from the video.
International Reaction
The attack has drawn international attention, with media outlets from around the world reporting on the incident. However, not all details are clear. For instance, a report by TASS stated that Turkish warplanes took down a drone over the Black Sea, although the origin of the drone was not specified by the Turkish Ministry of Defense.
Conclusion
While Ukraine claims to have hit and disabled the Russian submarine, Moscow denies any substantial damage caused by the drone strike. This incident marks a new development in naval warfare, as it is the first recorded use of underwater drones in an attack on a submarine. The aftermath and implications of this incident are yet to be fully understood, marking a new chapter in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.