Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has revealed significant details regarding its recent drone strike targeting a Russian submarine. This operation involved a preliminary attack on Russia’s only maritime anti-submarine aircraft, paving the way for a more complex underwater assault. On March 5, 2024, the SBU utilized a drone equipped with an airburst warhead, capable of dispersing over 2,000 fragments, to disable the Il-38N reconnaissance aircraft, also known as the Sea Dragon.
In a video released by the SBU, a drone is seen approaching the Sea Dragon on its runway, where the explosion was reported to have occurred directly above critical equipment and radar compartments, resulting in engine damage as well. The SBU emphasized the importance of this initial strike, stating it was essential for the subsequent attack on the Russian submarine. The Sea Dragon had been actively countering the operations of Ukraine’s maritime drones in the Black Sea.
Strategic Importance of the Sea Dragon Attack
The SBU pointed out that the Sea Dragon was the only aircraft of its type capable of detecting the “Sub Sea Baby” underwater drone as it approached its target. This reconnaissance aircraft operated from the Yeysk air base, situated on the eastern flank of the Sea of Azov, approximately 140 miles from the Russian port of Novorossiysk. This port is a significant base for Russian naval operations in the Black Sea, where many assets are stationed.
Earlier this month, the SBU reported attacking a Russian Kilo-class submarine using the modified Sub Sea Baby drone. This underwater drone, designed to ram into its target, is a variant of the uncrewed surface vessel known as the Sea Baby. The SBU also released footage showing an explosion near a pier in Novorossiysk, though the precise timing of this footage remains unverified.
The diesel-electric Kilo-class submarine, valued at approximately $400 million, is capable of carrying up to four Kalibr cruise missiles. These missiles are frequently used by Russia in attacks on Ukrainian cities and are often compared to the American Tomahawk missile in terms of capabilities. Despite Ukrainian claims of significant damage, the Russian Black Sea Fleet has denied that the submarine sustained serious harm from the attack.
Ukraine has been utilizing drones and missiles to challenge Russia’s naval dominance in the Black Sea, despite lacking an official navy of its own. The SBU previously indicated that the Kilo-class submarine was in Novorossiysk after retreating from Crimea due to heightened Ukrainian military pressure.
As the situation continues to evolve, both military strategies and the dynamics in the Black Sea remain under close scrutiny by international observers.
