Ukraine Unveils Sea Drones That Disrupt Russian Naval Operations

Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence Team has showcased its latest sea drones, which have played a crucial role in disrupting Russian naval operations in the Black Sea. The unmanned drones, known as MAGURA drones, have been instrumental in the destruction of several Russian vessels and aircraft, shifting the tide of naval warfare in the region.

The MAGURA drones unveiled include the MAGURA V5, the primary naval drone used by Ukraine against the Russian fleet. This drone can carry up to 320 kg of payload and is equipped with a combat module featuring a machine gun. Additionally, the display featured the MAGURA V6P multipurpose platform with a range of 540 nm and the MAGURA V7, capable of carrying 650 kg of payload with an impressive range of 800 nm. A variant of the MAGURA V7 equipped with a heavy machine gun combat module was also showcased.

Commander Thirteenth, leading HUR’s special unit Group 13, stated that the use of these sea drones has pushed the Russian fleet back to their home ports, restricting their movements and disrupting their missions. The drones have been credited with destroying 17 Russian targets, including two Mi-8 helicopters, two Su-30 fighter jets, and several vessels from Moscow’s Black Sea Fleet, resulting in an estimated damage of over 500 million dollars to Russia.

Despite the success of the sea drones, Russian ships continue to operate in Ukrainian waters, particularly around the occupied Crimea. Ukraine has responded with regular drone strikes using sea drones, UAVs, and missiles, compelling Moscow to relocate a portion of its fleet to Novorossiysk.

References: Yahoo News, Kyiv Post