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24. September 2025
Russia Hit By Rare Drone Attack As Ukraine Launches Bold Strike Against Naval Forces
Ukraine has reportedly launched a drone strike against two Russian Navy Be-12 flying boats, marking what is believed to be the first such attack in history. According to the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), the operation was carried out by the “Ghost” special forces unit on September 21.
The Be-12 Chayka, a Soviet-era anti-submarine aircraft designed in the 1950s, has played an important role in Russia’s naval operations since its introduction. Built by Beriev to be capable of flying from both land and water, the Be-12 was the successor to the Be-6 flying boat and shares many of its predecessor’s amphibious features.
The Be-12 Chayka is a rare sight, with only a handful of aircraft in service with the Russian Navy. Its age and limited availability have raised concerns about its continued relevance in modern naval warfare. However, the aircraft has proven to be an effective platform for detecting and combating submarines, making it a valuable asset in Russia’s maritime surveillance capabilities.
The drone strike on the Be-12s appears to have targeted two of the aircraft that were based at Kacha airfield in Crimea. Satellite imagery shows there were seven or eight Be-12s present at the airfield earlier this year, with four or five of them reportedly being airworthy. If both aircraft struck by the GUR were indeed airworthy, and now lie destroyed or damaged beyond repair, then the number of Be-12s available to Russia may have been halved.
However, the fact that one of the aircraft appears to lack a propeller on one of its engines suggests it might already have been withdrawn from use. Even if this is the case, the loss of two operational Be-12s could still be felt by the Russian Navy. The aircraft’s advanced radar system and glazed nose station make it an effective platform for reconnaissance and detection tasks.
In addition to its anti-submarine capabilities, the Be-12 has also been used for maritime patrols and protecting Russia’s Black Sea Fleet from Ukraine’s uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) or “drone boats.” The aircraft’s unique ability to operate from both land and water makes it an attractive option for Russian naval operations.
Alexander Lord, a security consultant at the Sibylline consultancy, noted that efforts to replace the aging Be-12s with more modern Be-200 anti-submarine aircraft have stalled in recent years. “While old and designed for a different age of naval warfare, the Be-12s have likely played a role in conducting maritime patrols and protecting Russia’s Black Sea Fleet from Ukraine’s uncrewed surface vehicles,” he said.
Mike Plunkett, a naval expert at the defense intelligence company Janes, added that it is possible the drone strike was just a target of opportunity or that Ukraine is seeking to degrade Russia’s maritime surveillance capabilities in advance of a specific operation. “It is clear, however, that the number of these amphibious aircraft available to Russia was already strictly limited,” he said.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides employing advanced technologies to gain an advantage. The use of drones by Ukraine has become increasingly common in recent months, with the country using them to attack Russian targets in Crimea and other parts of eastern Ukraine.
In an uncontested environment, the Be-12 still offers useful reconnaissance capabilities, providing a basic situational awareness picture of the coastline and detecting ships. Its radar system is also effective at detecting USVs or “drone boats,” making it an attractive option for maritime surveillance tasks.
The loss of two operational Be-12s could have significant implications for Russia’s naval operations, particularly in the Black Sea region. The aircraft’s unique capabilities make it a valuable asset for reconnaissance and detection tasks, and its absence may be felt by Russian naval commanders.
In recent years, efforts to modernize Russia’s naval capabilities have been hindered by budget constraints and the need to prioritize other military priorities. While some progress has been made in terms of upgrading existing aircraft, there is still an opportunity for new technologies to make a significant impact on the battlefield.
The use of advanced drones like those employed by Ukraine has already shown its effectiveness in recent conflicts. However, it remains to be seen whether Russia can find effective ways to counter these threats and maintain its maritime surveillance capabilities.
The incident also raises questions about the long-term relevance of the Be-12 Chayka. While it may still offer useful reconnaissance capabilities, its age and limited availability make it an increasingly expensive asset for Russia to maintain. As new technologies emerge, it remains to be seen whether the Be-12 will continue to play a role in Russian naval operations.
In conclusion, the drone strike on the Be-12 flying boats is a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The use of advanced technologies by both sides highlights the complexity and intensity of the conflict, and the importance of staying informed about developments on the ground.