Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Pose New Threat as Ukraine Targets Russian Ships and Infrastructure in Black Sea Region

‎Ukraine Drones, Strikes Russian Oil Tanker and Naval Base in Escalating Conflict

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In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Ukraine has employed powerful sea drones to target Russian assets in the Black Sea region. The latest attack involved the striking of a major Russian oil tanker, the Sig, and a naval base in Novorossiysk. According to a Ukraine Security Service source, a maritime drone carrying 450 kilograms (992 pounds) of TNT hit the Sig, causing a hole in the vessel’s engine room and forcing the crew to combat flooding.

One of Russia’s biggest oil tankers was struck by a maritime drone, the latest salvo in a Ukrainian military campaign employing unmanned vehicles to attack far-away Russian targets by air and by sea https://t.co/F5t14SiJRf pic.twitter.com/oRgqaSsORE
— CNN (@CNN) August 5, 2023

Despite Russian authorities claiming no casualties and the tanker not carrying oil at the time, Ukrainian officials contend that some crew were injured and that the vessel was transporting fuel for the Russian military. These claims remain unverified as independent confirmation is yet to be attained.

The deployment of powerful sea drones marks a new front for Ukraine in the 18-month-long conflict. These fast, semi-submersible drones are proving challenging to defend against and are capable of traveling long distances to reach their targets. Their payloads have proven capable of crippling large vessels, making them a potent weapon in Ukraine’s arsenal.

The attacks on the Russian tanker and naval base occurred near the Kerch Strait, which connects the Crimean Peninsula to mainland Russia. This strategic location has been a focal point of tension since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. Ukrainian forces have targeted the Kerch Bridge several times, and Friday’s assault appears to be one of the most significant to date.

In response to the mounting conflicts, the Saudi Arabia-hosted talks aim to address how to end the war in Ukraine. Invitations have been extended to around 30 countries, excluding Russia, for the meeting in Jeddah.

As the situation unfolds, the region faces heightened tensions, with both sides engaging in attacks and counterattacks. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles adds a new dimension to the conflict and poses risks to maritime security and infrastructure. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, hoping for a diplomatic resolution to avert further escalation and casualties.