UK develops new maritime drones to strengthen Ukraine’s defense in the Black Sea (X @DefenceHQ)
The UK is developing the maritime drones Wasp and Snapper to enhance Ukraine’s capabilities in the Black Sea.
The Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, mentioned these projects at a government event, highlighting the rapid progress in weapon development. On February 4, 2025, the Minister for Defence Procurement, Maria Eagle, confirmed that the systems were in the final testing phase and that further details would be released later.
These drones are part of a broader strategy to expand Ukraine’s unmanned fleet. In addition to being reusable and resistant to electronic warfare, they will be able to attack targets even without a signal and carry multiple weapons for greater impact.
The COOKSON system, linked to this initiative, will feature high speed, extended autonomy, and the ability to operate in environments with GPS interference. It will also be equipped with long-range munitions and air defense systems.
Initial production is expected to deliver two to three vessels per month within six months of the order, with purchases starting in the first quarter of 2025. In addition to the drones, hundreds of munitions will be acquired and tested at the end of 2025 and early 2026.
The project also includes the potential integration of machine guns, portable air defense systems, and long-range missiles, further strengthening Ukraine’s military capability.
Source: MilitarNYI | Photo: X @DefenceHQ | This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team
Ukraine’s naval defence technology have proven invaluable in the Black Sea.
26 Russian Navy vessels were damaged or destroyed in the region between February 2022 and June 2024.
Commercial shipping is now returning to near pre-war levels in the region.
🇺🇦#StandWithUkraine pic.twitter.com/Wd5who1rJu
— Ministry of Defence 🇬🇧 (@DefenceHQ) August 6, 2024
