Ukraine’s military has dealt another significant blow to Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, claiming to have disabled a third of its naval power through a series of strategic drone attacks. The latest strike, which occurred off the coast of Crimea, targeted the Russian landing ship Caesar Kunikov using “MAGURA” V5 sea drones. Ukrainian military intelligence reported that the drones punctured critical holes on the vessel’s left side, leading to its sinking.
According to Ukraine’s armed forces, this recent attack marks the 25th Russian warship disabled since the onset of the large-scale invasion. “Ukraine has disabled a third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet during the large-scale invasion,” they stated, aligning with previous claims that approximately 33% of Russia’s warships, including one submarine, have been incapacitated.
Night-time footage released by Ukraine showed a sea drone racing towards the Caesar Kunikov, followed by a massive plume of smoke rising from the vessel. The Defense Intelligence of Ukraine noted that the ship had been moored for ten days at a specialized berthing location, where it was likely being loaded with weapons and military equipment at the time of the attack.
The Kremlin has declined to comment on the reported attack. Dmitry Peskov, a Kremlin spokesperson, suggested referring to the Ministry of Defense for statements regarding the incident, emphasizing that it falls under the purview of the special military operation.
This attack is part of a broader Ukrainian strategy to weaken Russia’s naval capabilities in the Black Sea. Since last year, Ukraine has shifted its focus to the Black Sea, aiming to isolate Crimea and disrupt Russian military operations on the Ukrainian mainland. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg praised Ukraine’s efforts, stating that the Ukrainian forces have inflicted heavy losses on the Russian Black Sea Fleet, which he described as a “great achievement” and a “great victory for Ukrainians.”
Ukraine’s use of drones has been pivotal in leveling the playing field against Russia’s superior naval firepower. The “MAGURA” V5 drones, which are small, jet ski-powered, and difficult to detect, have proven effective in targeting Russian warships. These drones have a range of approximately 800 kilometers, allowing Ukrainian forces to launch them from various points along the coastline for missions against Crimean targets.
Earlier this month, Ukraine reported sinking the Russian guided-missile ship Ivanovets in the Black Sea using similar tactics. The most notable strike occurred in April 2022, when Ukraine sank the Moskva, forcing Russia to alter its naval operations near Ukrainian-controlled areas.
The ongoing drone and missile strikes have not only crippled Russia’s naval capabilities but also created more favorable conditions for Ukrainian grain exports from Black Sea ports. Stoltenberg highlighted that Ukraine’s successful attacks have opened a corridor for exporting grain and other commodities to the global market, even without an agreement with Russia.
Despite the significant losses, the Russian Black Sea Fleet remains a formidable force, capable of launching long-range cruise missile strikes at Ukraine. However, the continuous Ukrainian attacks have forced the Russian navy to take precautions, including relocating some ships to better-protected ports.
In summary, Ukraine’s relentless drone strikes have significantly weakened Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, demonstrating the effectiveness of modern drone warfare in altering the dynamics of naval conflict. As the war continues, Ukraine’s innovative use of technology and strategic targeting of naval assets will likely play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the conflict.
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