Staff Reports
In a surprising turn of events, a Russian navy ship was heavily damaged by a drone strike conducted by Ukraine. The target of the attack was the Ropucha-class landing ship, Olenegorski Gornjak, which now appears to be listing heavily and in need of assistance. The Russians claim to have destroyed two Ukrainian unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) in response, but let’s face it, they probably missed.
This attack marks a significant escalation in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. While Ukrainian USVs have previously attacked the Black Sea Fleet homeport of Sevastopol without much success, Novorossiysk had never been targeted before. Perhaps this element of surprise is what allowed the Ukrainians to achieve such a successful strike. It just goes to show that even in modern warfare, a well-planned drone attack can cause serious damage to a powerful navy.
Ukrainian kamikaze USV strike targeted Russian Navy Base in Novorossiysk.
One of the Russian ships in Novorossiysk capsized on its side, it is being towed ashore.
Reportedly: Ropucha-class landing ship, Olenegorski Gornjak pic.twitter.com/ivsI0a2mYm
— Clash Report (@clashreport) August 4, 2023
The Russians are not taking this attack lightly. They have been forced to divert resources and manpower to defend against these drone threats, which are primarily psychological and propaganda in nature. Instead of focusing on more important military operations, anti-aircraft units are being pulled into Crimea to defend Sevastopol. It’s a classic case of being caught off guard and having to scramble to protect oneself.
As tensions continue to rise in the region, it will be interesting to see how both sides respond. Will Ukraine continue to use their USVs as a strategic advantage? And how will Russia retaliate? One thing is for sure, this drone attack has shaken up the status quo and put the Russian Navy on high alert.
