Archive · 8 Dec 2025
Ukraine Predicts Advanced Sea Drone Strikes
Ukraine's military has been using special underwater robots called sea drones to stop Russian ships from moving freely in the Black Sea.
These drones have been very successful, but now the Russians are hiding more, making it harder for Ukraine to attack them.
The leader of Ukraine's sea drone team, called '13th', says they are working on even smarter drones that can make decisions on their own using computers.
These new drones might be able to do more complicated attacks in the future.
Ukraine is also working with other countries, like Greece, to make even better drones together.
Even though the Russians have changed their tactics, Ukraine's drones are still very effective at keeping them in check.
Ukraine's sea drones have successfully restricted Russian naval movements in the Black Sea.
The commander of Ukraine's sea-drone operations predicts more complex strikes next year.
Russian vessels now operate within 25 miles of port due to Ukrainian drone constraints.
Ukraine is developing AI-integrated drones for improved targeting and reduced operator workload.
Ukraine is collaborating with NATO countries, including Greece, to expand drone co-production and training.
- Who
- Ukraine's military intelligence agency, specifically Group 13, and Russia's Black Sea fleet
- What
- Ukraine's sea-drone operations have restricted Russian naval movements, with plans for more complex strikes next year
- When
- Current operations have reached a 'plateau', with future advancements expected next year
- Where
- Black Sea, with operations and interviews conducted in undisclosed locations in Ukraine
- Why
- To counter Russia's invasion and adapt to changing tactics, utilizing drone technology for reconnaissance and strikes
- Commander
- 13th (call sign)
- Drone Types
- Magura V5, V7
- Missile Used
- Modified U.S. Sidewinder
- Russian Fleet Range
- Up to 25 miles (40 km) from port
- AI Integration
- Target search is part operator, part AI
- Future Plans
- Longer-range strikes, submersible drones, mixed-fleet operations
- Collaboration
- Joint work with Greece on maritime UAVs