BREAKING: Ukraine has made a groundbreaking tactical move by launching first-person-view (FPV) drones from boats to attack maritime targets in the Black Sea. This marks the first documented instance of such an operation, signaling a significant evolution in drone warfare tactics.
On September 11, 2024, Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate, or GUR, released urgent footage showing FPV drones being deployed from vessels at sea, targeting the Petro Godovanets gas production platform. The footage, shared via GUR’s Telegram channel, captures a dramatic nighttime assault where at least three FPV drones are seen taking off from a boat before crashing into the platform.
According to GUR, this operation was executed by the elite Raven Group, part of Ukraine’s special forces. The intelligence agency stated that the attack effectively suppressed enemy fire on the platform, located near the coast of Crimea. “The occupiers suffered losses in personnel and equipment,” GUR reported, although the full extent of the damage caused remains unclear.
This new method of drone warfare diverges sharply from traditional approaches, which typically rely on uncrewed surface vessels or land-based munitions. FPV drones, controlled remotely, provide a more agile means of striking maritime targets, a tactic not previously harnessed in this manner by Ukraine.
The video footage showcases the innovative capabilities of the Ukrainian military, revealing troops navigating the open sea in lightweight combat vessels, likely rigid inflatable boats like the Zodiac. By operating FPV drones from boats, Ukraine has opened a new front in its ongoing conflict, emphasizing adaptability and resourcefulness.
GUR did not disclose the specific equipment used for this operation, but it is understood that such a mission would demand advanced control and navigation gear, including headsets, tablets, and GPS modules.
The Petro Godovanets platform has been a focal point of conflict since 2023, with ongoing skirmishes between Ukrainian forces and occupying troops. The implications of this latest drone operation are profound, potentially altering the dynamics of naval engagements in the region.
As the situation develops, military analysts will be keenly observing how this innovative approach affects future confrontations at sea. With Ukraine demonstrating its capability to launch effective drone strikes from boats, other nations may need to reassess their maritime defense strategies.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.