Ukraine Claims to Sink Russian Warship in Black Sea
Ukraine announced on Wednesday that it had successfully sunk a Russian warship in the Black Sea near the coast of Russian-occupied Crimea. This recent development comes as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches its third year anniversary on February 24. However, Moscow has yet to confirm the reported incident.
According to Ukrainian defense officials, if verified, this would mark the 15th Russian warship destroyed by Ukraine. Despite not having a formal navy, Ukraine has managed to sink approximately 20% of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in the past two years.
Where Did the Russian Ship Reportedly Sink?
The Ukrainian general staff has indicated that the amphibious ship named “Caesar Kunikov” sank around 2.5 miles off the coast of Alupka. Alupka is a city located on the southern tip of the Crimean Peninsula, which has been under Russian occupation since 2014.
Video Shows Ukrainian Sea Drones Targeting the Ship
Ukraine has released video footage that seemingly depicts their sea drones striking the Caesar Kunikov. Ukrainian Defense Intelligence reports suggest that the warship was transporting ammunition at the time of its sinking.
Magura V5 Naval Drones: The Weapon of Choice
The Ukrainian military employs a special operations unit known as “Group 13” to operate its Magura V5 sea drones. Developed in Ukraine, the Magura V5 naval drones are equipped with various sensors and payloads tailored to the mission’s requirements.
User’s Handy Guide: The Caesar Kunikov
The Caesar Kunikov, a significant asset in Russia’s navy, possesses movable bow doors that enable it to land troops and supplies without requiring docking facilities. Built in Poland in 1986, the ship is capable of transporting tanks and soldiers. It has actively participated in several conflicts, including the Syrian Civil War, Russo-Georgian War, KFOR mission, and the Russo-Ukrainian War as a member of the Russian Black Sea Fleet.
The Russian Black Sea Fleet has persistently attempted to secure control over ports in the Sea of Azov and exert dominance along the bridge that connects Crimea and Russia. Denying Ukraine access to the Black Sea has been a primary objective for Russian forces.
SOURCE: The Associated Press, BBC, Ukraine Today.org, and USA TODAY research
