Russia trials sea drones in attempt to close tech gap with Ukraine, says MOD

Russia is attempting to develop one-way attack surface drones in an attempt to keep up with those being deployed by Ukraine, according to the Ministry of Defence.

Ukraine and Russia have both engaged in the use of uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) since the conflict began, but Russia's defence industry is now attempting to close the capability gap between them.

"On 27 November 2023, Mikhail Danilenko, head of Russian firm KMZ, announced their USVs would be trialled in the 'special military operation' with a view to establishing series production in 2024," the MOD said in its latest intelligence update.

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"The Russian defence industry is moving to close the capability gap with Ukraine in the development of one-way attack uncrewed surface vehicles (OWA USVs).

"KMZ has previously manufactured a range of USVs, but in recent months they have started promoting their OWA capability; Danilenko said the boat could carry a munition of up to 600kg.

"Navies have employed USVs since the Second World War. However, with modern types resembling speedboats packed with explosives, in the hands of Ukrainian forces, they have emerged as a key capability in maritime domain since Russia's full-scale invasion."

Ukraine is known to have used uncrewed surface vehicles to attack the Russian navy.

Experts believe that attacks from these vehicles have placed a great strain on Moscow's naval capabilities.

Footage has circulated online showing the attacks on Russian ships and infrastructure by Ukrainian uncrewed boats.