Ukrainian military forces have carried out a landmark strike, severely damaging a $400 million Russian submarine in an attack that marks the first successful use of an underwater drone against such a vessel. The operation targeted a key Russian naval base in the Black Sea port of Novorossiysk.
Unprecedented Attack on Black Sea Fleet
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) released footage and a statement on Monday confirming the attack, which was executed using specialised 'Sub Sea Baby' underwater drones. According to President Volodymyr Zelensky's advisor, Alexander Kamyshin, this represents the first instance globally where an underwater drone has neutralised a submarine.
The targeted vessel was a Russian Kilo-class attack submarine, known by the NATO designation 'Black Hole' for its stealth capabilities. The SBU stated that the diesel-electric submarine had been used to launch Kalibr cruise missiles, often firing up to four at once, which have been instrumental in attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
Conflicting Claims and Strategic Impact
While Ukraine asserts the submarine suffered "critical damage" and was "effectively put out of action," Russian officials have denied the success of the operation. Alexei Rulev, head of the Black Sea Fleet press service, claimed via state media that the attempted sabotage using an unmanned underwater vehicle had failed.
This bold naval strike underscores Ukraine's innovative asymmetric warfare tactics. With its conventional naval fleet largely depleted, Ukraine has increasingly relied on sea drones and missiles to challenge Russia's Black Sea Fleet, previously forcing its relocation from Sevastopol in Crimea to Novorossiysk.
Broader Context and Aftermath
The attack occurs amidst strained diplomatic efforts. Russian deputy foreign minister Sergei Ryabkov has insisted Moscow will not make territorial concessions, while Ukraine maintains any changes must be subject to a referendum. Separately, over 280,000 Ukrainian households were left without power following renewed Russian attacks overnight.
The SBU estimates that rebuilding the advanced 636.3 class submarine could cost up to $500 million, exacerbated by the impact of international sanctions. According to the released video, the powerful explosion occurred near a pier in Novorossiysk, where three other Russian submarines remain stationed.
President Zelensky, addressing European leaders at the Council of Europe in The Hague on Tuesday, emphasised the need for accountability, stating his hope that "the tribunal for Russian aggression will truly begin its work, not just for us, but for everyone who wants peace in Europe."
