Ukraine has successfully executed a drone strike using its Sea Baby drones, targeting a Russian Kilo-class submarine in the port of Novorossiysk. The operation has resulted in significant damage to the vessel, rendering it inoperable, as reported by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU).
In its announcement on Monday, the SBU confirmed that the attack marks a pivotal achievement in naval warfare for Ukraine. “The Security Service of Ukraine carried out another unique special operation and launched a naval attack in the port of Novorossiysk,” the agency declared via Telegram. They revealed that the damaged submarine was equipped with four Kalibr cruise missile launchers, which have been employed in attacks against Ukrainian territories. The submarine has suffered critical damage and is effectively out of commission.
While there has been no immediate reply from Russian authorities regarding the Ukrainian claims, the SBU’s announcement coincides with heightened diplomatic efforts in Berlin among U.S., European, and Ukrainian officials discussing strategies to address Russia’s aggression. Ukraine has aimed to demonstrate its capability to deliver significant blows to Russian military assets, particularly in light of U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments suggesting that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lacked leverage in negotiations.
This strike aligns with Ukraine’s ongoing campaigns to target vessels associated with Russia, as well as its continued assaults on Russian energy infrastructure and military positions. In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its offensive against Ukrainian energy facilities and persists in asserting territorial gains in eastern Ukraine.
Ukrainian naval spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk emphasized that hitting a submarine – a notoriously challenging target – signifies “another turning point” in the naval conflict with Russia. He noted that the challenge of repairing the damaged submarine means it would remain vulnerable to further attacks, as repairs must occur above water.
With this recent operation, Russia has now lost one of its four submarines based in Novorossiysk, of which three are known to be Kalibr missile carriers. This development reflects a notable shift in the naval dynamics of the ongoing conflict, showcasing Ukraine’s evolving military capabilities.