The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) announced on 15/12 that it conducted a special operation, setting a "sea trap" at Novorossiysk port. For the first time, Sea Baby unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) struck a Russian submarine, severely damaging it and rendering it inoperable.
Video released by the SBU shows several Russian warships docked at Novorossiysk port and a submarine surfaced at the pier. A large explosion occurs at the submarine's location, sending water splashing around.
The Russian military has not commented on the information. Novorossiysk is a crucial naval gateway for Moscow on the Black Sea, especially after Ukrainian attacks forced Russian vessels to withdraw from the Crimea peninsula.
The SBU stated that a counter-intelligence unit of the agency collaborated with the Ukrainian navy on the operation, but did not specify when the incident occurred. The targeted Russian submarine belongs to Project 636.3 Varshavyanka class, also known as the Kilo class, capable of carrying four Kalibr cruise missiles.
The Project 636.3 Varshavyanka attack submarine is a deeply modernized version developed specifically for the Russian navy. The US navy nicknamed it "Black Hole in the Ocean" due to its ability to evade NATO anti-submarine reconnaissance systems.
The SBU estimates the cost of one such improved Kilo submarine to be 400 million USD, potentially reaching 500 million USD amid Western sanctions on Russia.
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Location of Novorossiysk port, Russia. Graphics: BBC |
Ukraine developed the Sea Baby unmanned suicide drone after Russia launched its campaign in the country in 2022. The drone is 6 m long, has a speed of 90 km/h, an operating range of 1,000 km, and can carry 850 kg of explosives. Its hull is made of radar-evading material. Each unit costs approximately 213,000 USD.
In October, Ukraine unveiled an upgraded version of the Sea Baby, featuring an operating range of over 1,500 km and a payload capacity of two tons, nearly double the previous model.
The Sea Baby plays a vital role, helping Kyiv maintain its position in the Black Sea. The Ukrainian navy has consistently used this USV to attack Russia's Black Sea Fleet, compelling Moscow to relocate its forces from Crimea to Novorossiysk.
Nhu Tam (According to Kyiv Post, Defense Blog)
