DIU destroys two Russian boats in Crimea

30 May, 2024 KS-701 Tunets boat in the sight of the Magura V5 naval drone, May 2024. Photo credits: DIU Magura V5 maritime drones of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine have hit Russian KC-701 Tunets boats in occupied Crimea.

The DIU press service reported on this. On May 30, 2024, a special unit of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Group 13, using Magura V5 strike marine drones, effectively attacked the Russian ship and boat fleet in temporarily occupied Crimea. Through dense fire, Ukrainian drones broke through to the Vuzka Bay and hit two high-speed transport and amphibious boats, which were standing on the dock.

According to the intelligence officers, during the operation, the Russian invaders scrambled Su-27, Su-30, Su-35, and MiG-29 fighter jets, as well as Be-12 and An-26 aircraft, 32 times to intercept the drones. It is reported that Ka-27/29 and Mi-8 helicopters were also involved in the interception.

They tried to hit the drones with on-board weapons and with volleys of unguided aircraft missiles. The video shows the explosions of airborne missiles and the attack of a Russian Mi-24/Mi-35 attack helicopter, which tried to hit a maritime drone with a nose gun. In an attempt to neutralize the drones, the Russian military also randomly used small arms and 30mm guns.

A Russian Mi-24/35 helicopter during the interception of a Ukrainian naval drone, May 2024. Photo credits: Defence Intelligence of Ukraine

The intelligence agency emphasized that a successful operation was made possible due to the support of the global United24 platform. The attack drones were presumably purchased with the funds of this Foundation.

KS-701 Tunets

The KS-701 is an 8.8-meter aluminum boat with a diesel power plant manufactured by the Kostroma Ship Mechanical Plant.

The vessel is designed, among other things, to perform special tasks and patrol operations and is used by the Coast Guard units of the FSS Border Service.