On 15 December, a Ukrainian drone detonated near the ‘Warszawianka’ ship at the Novoorosyusk naval base, producing a large explosion seen in released footage.
Attack and Initial Footage
The strike was carried out by Ukrainian Security Service and Naval Forces using a new underwater drone called ‘Sub Sea Baby’. A video from a museum building shows a large explosion close to the ship’s stern.
Ukrainian Damage Claims
Ukraine said the vessel suffered ‘critical’ damage and was temporarily out of service. They suggested flooding of several aft watertight compartments and damage to the hull near the stern, but the released footage does not visibly confirm these effects.
Russian Denial and Satellite Evidence
Russian officials immediately dismissed the claim, releasing a statement that the ‘Warszawianka’ suffered no damage. A short clip from Channel 1 shows the ship alongside the pier appearing intact, though the timing of the footage is unclear. Satellite images later indicated a separate nearby vessel had been moved slightly away from the blast site.
Assessing Concealed Damage
The explosion created a sizable hole in the pier 10–20 m from the ship, suggesting the blast was powerful enough to potentially compromise the stern, propeller and steering gear. However, the ship’s outer hull appears largely intact, and damage could be concealed within the submerged sections beneath the waterline.
Strategic Impact on Russian Submarine Fleet
Even if the submarine remains afloat, the absence of a nearby dock capable of comprehensive repair means the vessel could be rendered unusable for an extended period. With only four of the original seven ‘Warszawianka’-type submarines potentially operational, Russia’s ability to deploy its Kalibr missiles and protect its Black Sea interests is diminished.