The Black Sea is no longer a sanctuary for Russian forces, warned a representative from Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence. Yevhen Yerin, speaking during a national telethon, confirmed that the destruction of two Russian fighter jets by Ukraine’s Magura naval drones signals a dramatic shift in maritime security in the region. He declared that Ukrainian forces are moving steadily forward in their efforts, with improved drone capabilities continuing to disrupt Russian military dominance at sea.
The recent successful use of Magura-7 unmanned boats equipped with AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles to bring down two Russian Su-30 “Flanker” multi-purpose jets is being hailed as a strategic win. These strikes, combined with earlier hits on Russian ships and helicopters, highlight a consistent pattern of Ukrainian advancements in drone warfare technology.
Yerin described the Magura project as a “family” of drones with expanding roles and increasing technical sophistication. He assured the public that development efforts are ongoing and relentless, with more innovations expected. He made it clear that Ukrainian control over the Black Sea will strengthen with time and collaboration with international partners.
He stated, “The Black Sea has long ceased to be safe for the aggressor country. From ships and helicopters to now aircraft, this proves our course is right. Development is constant and we will not stop.”
The Russian dictator’s naval presence in the Black Sea is now under continuous threat. Yerin urged the enemy not to relax, as Ukrainian dominance at sea will only grow stronger.
Earlier, Kyrylo Budanov, head of Defence Intelligence, had confirmed the operation in which two Russian Su-30 fighters were shot down using Ukrainian sea drones. Each aircraft costs millions of US dollars. The damage to Russia’s already overstretched military fleet is estimated to be over 30 million US dollars (around £24 million).
Ukrainian drone innovation is proving to be one of the most effective tools in reversing Russian maritime aggression.
Drones are the new Warrior of the military set, and certainly fill a unique and important part in the the overall infrastructure of what is needed to fight. However the risk of dependency on them as the new big thing, and other key aspects that make outcomes succeed are neglected, must be guarded against.
I dream of seeing all the “experts” about the final outcome proven wrong, and Putin pushed back and even eliminated, or better still rot in a prison. Then see Ukraine take its part in a free, democratic and hugely successful European nation. As a wise adage says “living well is the best revenge”. May that be so for the brave Ukrainians in the not too distant future.