The Russian Black Sea Fleet has begun a large-scale retrofitting of its submarine fleet. Satellite imagery has captured the appearance of specific protective structures on Kilo-class diesel-electric submarines, designed to protect the vessels from drone strikes.
Satellite monitoring records changes
Information about the modernization came from the UK Ministry of Defense. As reported by RBC-Ukraine, British analysts analyzed commercial satellite images taken between June 6 and June 9. The images clearly show that protective cages are being installed over the submarines' conning towers.
As of June 9, three of the four detected submarines had already received such protection. The British department predicts that the remaining fourth submarine will be equipped with a similar structure in the near future.
'Barbecues' as a response to the drone threat
In a statement, the British Ministry of Defense emphasized that these actions are a preventive measure. Experts link the installation of cages to Ukraine's growing ability to strike targets located behind the front line using unmanned aerial vehicles.
Protective structures resembling grates are often called 'barbecues' (mangals) in professional circles and among military commentators. Their task is to physically intercept a drone or its warhead before it reaches the submarine's critical nodes.
Features of the Black Sea Fleet
Kilo-class submarines (NATO reporting name) are diesel-electric vessels of Project 877 'Paltus' and Project 636 'Varshavyanka'. They are distinguished by high stealth and the ability to operate in shallow waters. The submarines' armament includes torpedoes, mines, and 'Kalibr' cruise missiles. The maximum underwater speed is up to 20 knots.
Context of escalation
Fleet modernization is taking place against the backdrop of intensified attacks on maritime infrastructure. Earlier, SBU drones struck the cable ships 'Volga' and 'Vyatka', which were docked at the 'Zaliv' shipyard in Kerch. The attack caused a massive fire on the ships.
Meanwhile, Russia has appealed to international organizations with a complaint about Ukrainian strikes on tankers of the so-called 'shadow fleet'. In Kyiv, in turn, they stated that these ships should not be considered exclusively commercial, pointing to their possible connection with military supplies.
