Ukraine’s Security Service has detailed its strategy in a recent strike against a Russian submarine, revealing a sophisticated operation that began with an attack on Russia’s sole maritime anti-submarine aircraft. The operation involved the use of a drone equipped with an airburst warhead capable of dispersing over 2,000 fragments, significantly enhancing the strike’s effectiveness.
In a video released on October 3, 2023, the SBU reported that the initial phase of the operation targeted an Il-38N reconnaissance plane, known as the Sea Dragon, at the Yeysk air base. This aircraft is crucial for detecting underwater threats and had been actively countering Ukrainian maritime drone operations. The SBU stated that the drone strike directly hit the main equipment and radar compartments of the aircraft, causing substantial damage.
The SBU emphasized that disabling the Sea Dragon was a vital precursor to the main operation against the Russian submarine. “In the Black Sea, the Russians had only one aircraft of this class capable of detecting the ‘Sub Sea Baby’ underwater drone as it moved toward its target,” the agency noted. The Yeysk air base, located on the eastern flank of the Sea of Azov, is roughly 140 miles from the strategic port of Novorossiysk, where many of Russia’s naval assets are stationed.
The SBU previously claimed to have attacked a Kilo-class submarine with the Sub Sea Baby, a modified version of the uncrewed surface vessel designed to operate underwater. This submarine, valued at approximately $400 million, can carry up to four Kalibr cruise missiles, which have been frequently employed in assaults on Ukrainian cities.
While the SBU released footage of an explosion near a pier in Novorossiysk, the exact timing of the incident remains unclear. The Russian Black Sea Fleet has denied that the attack caused significant damage to the Kilo-class submarine. The SBU had indicated that the submarine had retreated to Novorossiysk from Crimea due to escalating Ukrainian assaults.
Despite lacking an official navy, Ukraine has effectively utilized drones and missiles to challenge Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. The ongoing conflict has seen both sides engage in a series of strikes, affecting naval operations in the region. As Ukraine continues to refine its military strategies, the recent revelations underscore its commitment to countering Russian maritime capabilities.