During the “July Storm” military exercises, Russia tested a new naval strike drone, capable of hitting and destroying maritime targets simulating warships.
In addition to this unmanned vessel, FPV drones and other surface platforms were also used, although their exact functions have not been disclosed yet. All major Russian naval formations participated in the training, except for the Black Sea Fleet, focusing on reconnaissance tasks and destroying coastal and maritime targets.
In May 2024, the Russian Navy created specific regiments to operate unmanned systems as part of an expansion of the Armed Forces’ technological capabilities. These new groups will be equipped with aerial, ground, surface, and underwater drones, with the mission to carry out strikes, protect Russian vessels, counter enemy drones, and eliminate naval mines.
Russia’s use of naval drones gained prominence in 2023 after an attack on a railway bridge in Odesa. Since then, the country has invested in the development of this technology, including the creation of a drone named Oduvanchik and the opening of a production center in St. Petersburg. The facility includes testing grounds to enable the continuous use of these vessels, reinforcing the Kremlin’s commitment to the strategic use of unmanned vehicles at sea.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @front_ukrainian | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
❗️The 🇷🇺Russians are testing their new kamikaze naval drone during the July Storm naval exercises in the Baltic. pic.twitter.com/sy4naOqF3q
— 🪖MilitaryNewsUA🇺🇦 (@front_ukrainian) July 26, 2025
