Ukraine expands attacks with drone boats against Russian targets on the Dnipro River

English Posted on  —by Carro e motos
Ukraine expands drone boat attacks against Russian targets on the Dnipro River
Ukraine expands drone boat attacks against Russian targets on the Dnipro River (X @zloy_odessit)

Ukraine has started deploying drone boats in offensive operations against Russian targets on the Dnipro River, expanding the use of unmanned surface vehicles beyond the Black Sea.

One of the highlights is the Barracuda, a USV developed by the 40th Coastal Defense Brigade of the 30th Marine Corps, which has already been used to strike small boats and camouflaged positions in river channels and islands.

With a modular design and focus on short-range missions, the Barracuda lacks satellite communication, limiting its range but making it suitable for riverine operations. According to Ukrainian military sources, the system can conduct one-way attacks, employ grenades and FPV drones, and perform logistical support missions, offering a simpler and cheaper alternative compared to other long-range USVs already used by Kyiv.

The use of these drone boats comes amid the ongoing contest for control of the Dnipro since the recapture of Kherson in 2023. Given the difficulty of large-scale river-crossing offensives, Ukraine relies on targeted actions and intensive use of unmanned systems to contain Russian advances and protect its internal waterways.

Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @zloy_odessit | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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