A significant naval operation by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and the Ukrainian Navy resulted in the destruction of a Russian submarine valued at approximately £298 million. The event, captured on camera, occurred in the port of Novorossiysk, a crucial location that serves as one of Russia’s largest ports on the Black Sea.
Footage of the operation reveals a massive explosion that sent debris raining down on nearby vessels. Reports indicate that the submarine was likely equipped with four Kalibr missile launchers, which have been utilized in attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. If confirmed, this incident would mark the first successful underwater drone strike in military history.
The operation involved the use of Sea Baby naval drones, which have previously been effective in driving Russian military ships out of Sevastopol Bay in Crimea. The damage inflicted on the submarine appears to have rendered it inoperable, although the total impact is still being assessed.
Novorossiysk plays a vital role in Russia’s maritime activities, being the second-largest oil export center in the country. As of now, there is no information regarding potential casualties resulting from the explosion.
Political Context and Implications
This development comes at a time when tensions between Ukraine and Russia remain high. Recently, Alexander Stubb, President of Finland, commented on the ongoing peace negotiations, suggesting that while Ukraine and Russia may be nearing a resolution, the threat posed by President Vladimir Putin continues to loom large. Stubb noted, “I think we are at a critical moment in negotiations for peace, and at the same time, we are probably closer to a peace agreement than we have been at any time during these four years.”
The international response to this attack is likely to be closely monitored, particularly as it demonstrates Ukraine’s capabilities in conducting complex military operations.
In a related context, just a week prior, the Royal Navy intercepted a Russian submarine, the Krasnodar, during a three-day operation in challenging weather conditions in the English Channel. The British support ship RFA Tidesurge, equipped with a Merlin helicopter, was deployed to observe the submarine and its accompanying tug boat, Altay.
As the situation continues to evolve, both military and political analysts will be observing the ramifications of this strike, especially on the broader dynamics of naval warfare and international relations in the region.
