ukraine’s military struck and severely damaged a Russian missile ship, the Sergei Kotov, in Azov Sea on March 5, 2024, according to Ukrainian intelligence. the attack, carried out using naval drones, represents a notable blow to Russia‘s black Sea Fleet and its ability to project power in the region.
The destruction of the Sergei Kotov underscores Ukraine’s growing capacity to target Russian naval assets despite lacking a customary navy. This capability is crucial as Ukraine seeks to disrupt Russia’s maritime supply lines and challenge its control over occupied territories. The loss of the vessel, a modern patrol ship capable of carrying cruise missiles, will likely constrain Russia’s operations in the Azov Sea and possibly force a reassessment of naval deployments.
Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) reported the ship was hit while stationed in the port of berdiansk, a key logistical hub for Russian forces in the occupied Zaporizhzhia region. HUR released video footage purportedly showing the drones approaching and striking the vessel, followed by images of it listing heavily.
“On March 5, 2024, at approximately 10:00 PM, in the temporarily occupied Crimea, a special operation was carried out to destroy the Russian patrol ship Sergei Kotov,” HUR stated. “Consequently of the attack, the ship sustained critical damage and was unable to move.”
The sergei kotov had been involved in operations against Ukrainian forces in Mariupol and other areas. its destruction follows a series of successful Ukrainian strikes against Russian naval vessels, including the sinking of the cruiser Moskva in April 2022 and the landing ship Caesar Kunikov in February 2024. These attacks demonstrate Ukraine’s innovative use of naval drones and its determination to reclaim control of its territorial waters.
