Ukrainian Special Forces Strike Russian Naval Vessel in Black Sea

On September 10, 2025, Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) reported a successful drone strike on a Russian Black Sea Fleet vessel near Novorossiysk. The targeted ship, identified as a Project MPSV07 multipurpose support vessel, was conducting electronic reconnaissance and patrolling the bay at the time of the attack. The strike reportedly destroyed the ship's navigation and communication systems, rendering it inoperative and necessitating costly repairs. This vessel, valued at approximately $60 million, is one of only four of its class in the Russian fleet.

United24 MediaUkraine hits Russian Black Sea Fleet warship near NovorossiyskKyiv IndependentUkraine Cripples $60M Russian Warship Near Novorossiysk in Drone Strike – HUR‘Salami Tactics’ and ‘Mosquito Fleets’ – Russian Drones Signal Escalating Threat to NATO’s Eastern FlankPortsmouth News

The drone strike was executed by HUR's special forces using a domestically produced combat drone. The agency released footage showing the drone hitting the ship's bridge, which houses critical electronic warfare equipment. The attack is part of Ukraine's broader strategy to intensify its naval operations against Russian assets in the Black Sea, particularly following the redeployment of the Russian fleet after previous Ukrainian strikes in occupied Crimea.

Ukraine Cripples $60M Russian Warship Near Novorossiysk in Drone Strike – HUR‘Salami Tactics’ and ‘Mosquito Fleets’ – Russian Drones Signal Escalating Threat to NATO’s Eastern FlankUkraine hits Russian Black Sea Fleet warship near NovorossiyskKyiv IndependentUnited24 MediaRussia Matters

The Black Sea has become a focal point in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, with both sides ramping up their naval capabilities. Ukraine has claimed responsibility for multiple successful attacks against Russian naval assets, asserting that it has destroyed or disabled about one-third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet since the onset of the full-scale war. The recent strike on the Project MPSV07 vessel aligns with Ukraine's strategy to disrupt Russian military operations and diminish its naval presence in the region.

Ukraine Cripples $60M Russian Warship Near Novorossiysk in Drone Strike – HUR

While Ukrainian officials celebrate the strike as a significant achievement, there are concerns regarding the escalating nature of the conflict. Critics argue that such attacks could provoke a stronger military response from Russia, potentially leading to an escalation of hostilities in the Black Sea and beyond. The situation remains tense, with both sides continuing to develop and deploy advanced military technologies.

Ukraine Cripples $60M Russian Warship Near Novorossiysk in Drone Strike – HUR

In a statement following the attack, HUR emphasized the importance of the operation in limiting the combat capabilities of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. The agency noted that the strike was part of a series of operations aimed at degrading Russian military assets in the region. However, the Kyiv Independent reported that the claims regarding the extent of damage and the specific vessel targeted could not be independently verified.

Kyiv Independent

• “The destruction of the tugboat significantly limits the combat capabilities of the elite Russian unit,” — HUR Statement

Ukraine Cripples $60M Russian Warship Near Novorossiysk in Drone Strike – HUR

• “As a result of the strike, the Russian vessel's electronic intelligence systems were destroyed, and the ship was disabled and sent for costly repairs,” — HUR Statement

Kyiv Independent

The ongoing conflict in the Black Sea is expected to see continued military engagements as both Ukraine and Russia adapt their strategies. Analysts suggest that Ukraine will likely maintain its focus on drone warfare and naval operations to counter Russian advancements, while Russia may respond with increased military presence and defensive measures in the region. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for broader regional stability.

‘Salami Tactics’ and ‘Mosquito Fleets’ – Russian Drones Signal Escalating Threat to NATO’s Eastern Flank