Video: Ukraine Uses Underwater Drones to Strike Russian Submarine in Black Sea

Kyiv: Ukraine's security agency, SBU, has claimed that for the first time in the history of modern warfare, it has destroyed an enemy submarine with the help of an underwater drone. According to the agency, this attack was carried out on a Russian submarine, which was used to fire cruise missiles at Ukraine. If this claim proves true, then it is being considered as a step changing the direction of naval warfare.

Where and how did the attack happen?

According to Ukrainian officials, the attack was carried out on Russia's Novorossiysk port. This is an important naval base of Russia in the Black Sea, where it had removed many of its ships from Crimea and deployed them. SBU says that its underwater drone named “Sub Sea Baby” targeted the Russian submarine parked at the port. In the video released, a massive explosion is seen taking place underwater.

What type of submarine was it?

Ukraine claims that it was Varshavyanka, i.e., a Kilo-class diesel submarine. This is the same category that is considered capable of firing Kalibr cruise missiles. These missiles have been used by Russia in attacks on many cities and the energy infrastructure of Ukraine. According to SBU, the submarine has suffered serious damage, and its value is estimated to be around 400 million dollars.

Why is this important for Ukraine?

Ukraine has limited conventional naval strength. In such a situation, he has relied more on drone and missile technology. Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk said that it is not easy to hit a strong target like a submarine. According to him, this attack is a new turning point in maritime warfare, and this makes it clear that the methods of war are changing rapidly.

What did Russia say on the claim?

Russia has rejected Ukraine's claims. According to Russian state media, the Black Sea Fleet has said that no ships or submarines were damaged at the Novorossiysk base and operations there are going on normally.

What could be the further impact?

Ukrainian officials say that if the submarine is indeed destroyed, it would take huge expense and time for Russia to replace it, especially since it is subject to international sanctions. At the same time, military experts believe that such attacks can completely change the strategy of maritime warfare in the future.