Ukrainian forces have successfully targeted a Russian artillery position on the Korskumi front, striking not only the howitzer but also its accompanying ammunition depot. The attack left three Russian soldiers wounded, and destroyed the D20 howitzer. The precise Ukrainian strike further exemplifies the military’s efficiency in countering Russian aggression in occupied territories.
The conflict on the Black Sea has also seen significant developments. A commander from Ukraine’s elite maritime drone unit, Group 13, shared insights into the evolving nature of naval warfare. Speaking under the call sign “13th” at a classified intelligence presentation, he revealed that although the Russian navy has begun forming regiments for unmanned naval systems, these regiments exist mainly on paper. The Russian dictator’s forces are still far from being able to effectively deploy unmanned surface vehicles.
Ukrainian maritime drones have forced the Russian Black Sea fleet into hiding, with vessels now stationed deep within Sevastopol and Novorossiysk bays. Ukrainian dominance is so extensive that, according to the Group 13 commander, over 90 percent of the Black Sea is now under effective Ukrainian control. This shift has forced Russian ships to remain within 20 miles (about 32 kilometres) of their easternmost naval bases out of fear of attack.
The Ukrainian drone dominance is partly thanks to innovative designs like the Mura V7, showcased at the intelligence presentation. This drone is equipped with AIM9 missiles and a remote controlled machine gun turret, tailored for air defence.
The United Kingdom is further supporting Ukraine with a clever form of military deception. British forces are supplying Ukraine with flat-packed decoys of Challenger 2 tanks and AS90 artillery systems. These convincing mock-ups are made from lightweight materials with photographic prints of the real equipment. Once assembled, they appear indistinguishable from real weapons systems, even from 25 metres away. Their primary goal is to confuse Russian forces and waste valuable Kremlin munitions on decoys, preserving Ukraine’s actual hardware.
Up to 30 such decoys can be sent for every five genuine systems delivered, according to Colonel Oliver Todd of the Royal Marines. The British strategy is working, helping Ukraine maintain a technological edge against Russian surveillance and drone strikes.
Meanwhile, Norway has committed to completing the delivery of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine in 2025. While operational security prevents disclosure of exact figures, these aircraft, retired in 2021 but still combat-ready, mark a crucial boost to Ukraine’s aerial capabilities. Denmark and the Netherlands are already delivering their promised F-16s, while Belgium is expected to follow with two this year, one of which will serve as a source of spare parts.
