The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) has successfully employed Sea Baby maritime drones in what marks a global first for remote underwater mining operations, resulting in significant losses to the Russian military fleet. According to the Wall Street Journal, these maneuvers were a response to Russian construction of barriers nearly neutralizing drone strike capabilities in the port of Sevastopol.
As reported, the SBU positioned Sea Baby drones near Crimea, deploying over 15 underwater mines that sank four Russian military vessels. Among the casualties were the corvette “Samum,” patrol boat “Pavel Derzhavin,” a large tugboat, and one of the modern minesweepers.
The initial two mines were laid on September 14, damaging the missile corvette “Samum,” which necessitated its temporary dry docking for repairs. In the ensuing weeks, Sea Baby continued operations, laying an additional 15 mines, one of which again disabled a large patrol boat “Pavel Derzhavin” attempting to exit Sevastopol Bay.
The sea mines used by the SBU are made of plastic, weigh approximately 180 kg, and are difficult to detect due to their ability to sink into silt in shallow waters. This technology allows Ukrainian forces to conduct remote warfare with minimal risk to their personnel, a crucial aspect of their strategy.
Experts note that the SBU’s maneuvers represent the world’s first successful example of remote mining in military operations, showcasing a new level of technological capability for Ukrainian armed forces.
This incident is just one component of Ukraine’s strategy in asymmetric warfare against Russia, where the country utilizes high-tech means to defend its territorial interests and strategic advantages.
For more on the ongoing situation with the Crimean Bridge and Ukraine’s preparations for decisive action, visit:
Crimean Bridge on the Brink of Destruction: Ukraine Prepares for Decisive Move