A paradigm shift is occurring in the actions of Ukrainian naval forces in the Black Sea. While the focus was previously on the complete destruction of targets, the priority is now on seizure and confiscation. This was revealed in a statement by the commander of a Main Directorate for Intelligence (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine unit with the callsign "Ninth" in an interview with Business Insider.

From Kamikaze to Convoy

The key element of the new strategy is the multi-purpose unmanned surface vehicle (USV) "Katran," developed by the Ukrainian enterprise "Military Armored Vehicle Company HUB." Initially, this apparatus was created as a kamikaze attack boat equipped with explosives to combat ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. However, its functionality has undergone significant changes.

Today, the "Katran" and its modifications are considered a tool for intercepting merchant vessels. The goal of new operations is to detain ships transporting stolen goods, weapons, or sanctioned oil. According to "Ninth," the tactics of action are structured as follows:

  • If a vessel complies with the demands of Ukrainian forces, it is escorted by unmanned vehicles to a designated port.
  • In the port, the vessel and its cargo are confiscated in accordance with international law.
  • In the event of a refusal to cooperate, more severe measures may be taken, up to and including the destruction of the target.

The unit commander notes that this approach is considered more humane than the total destruction of ships with unknown cargo, although the threat of force remains.

The Future: Deck Control and Air Cover

The GUR is developing scenarios for further escalation of drone capabilities. In the future, it is planned to implement tactics where some drones will take control of a ship's deck and temporarily detain the crew, while other unmanned vehicles provide air cover. At the same time, if the vessel offers active resistance, it can be sunk in seconds.

Strengthening Defense Potential

The development of maritime unmanned vehicles is taking place against the backdrop of a general strengthening of Ukraine's defense systems. On the same day, Ukraine received Giraffe radar systems from Sweden, manufactured by Saab. These stations have a detection range of up to 100 km, detecting cruise missiles, aircraft, and unmanned vehicles, as well as surface targets.

At the same time, the Ukrainian industry continues to produce new developments for air and reconnaissance warfare:

  • TAF Industries has begun production of the Octopus-100 interceptor drone, designed to destroy Russian "Shahed" drones and other high-speed targets in the conditions of enemy electronic warfare.
  • The defense enterprise "General Cherechnya" demonstrated a new aircraft-type reconnaissance drone called Sweetheart. The development was carried out jointly with the military to carry out missions deep in the enemy's rear.