Russia fortifies Kerch Bridge against Ukrainian marine drone threat
The Russians are apparently afraid of an attack by Ukrainian marine drones on the Kerch Bridge. According to the Ukrainian Military service, additional barriers have appeared nearby. They can be seen in satellite images as interconnected barges. So far, seven such installations have been observed, each about 90-100 meters long.
The "Crimean Wind" group, which monitors the situation in Crimea, published satellite images on Telegram showing the fortifications that the Russians are building around the Kerch Bridge (also known as the Crimean Bridge). They explain that instead of using barrels filled with foam and linked by cables, small barges have been installed this time. Their goal is to protect the bridge from Ukrainian surface and underwater drones, which can carry powerful warheads.
The Russians are trying to protect the Crimean Bridge
The Crimean Bridge, which connects the Russian Federation with the Crimea it occupies, has long been one of the main targets of attacks on the Ukrainian army's list. Attempts to destroy it have been made several times. One such attempt occurred in July 2023. Ukrainians reportedly used armed drones at that time. The Russians are apparently aware that these were not the last attacks on the Crimean Bridge and are taking extensive measures to prevent them.
Recent reports of improvements made to the marine drones used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine may heighten concerns. For example, SeaBaby drones have reportedly been equipped with Grad rocket launchers, according to the Ukrainian news agency UNIAN. These devices have apparently already been used during attacks on Russian targets. However, there are mixed opinions on the effectiveness of this solution, especially concerning the feasibility of launching unguided rockets from an unstable platform.
SeaBaby drones themselves are eagerly used by Ukrainians. In their basic version, they resemble motorboats in shape and size. Ukrainians claim that they are multifunctional devices capable of carrying up to 860 kilograms of explosives. SeaBaby drones are powered by jet propellers and equipped with sets of day and thermal cameras, as well as a laser rangefinder for measuring distances.
In March 2024, the Security Service of Ukraine reported working on a new version of SeaBaby drones, called Avidiivka. According to their announcements, the new drones will be even more dangerous, harder to detect, and capable of delivering nearly a tonne of explosives over a distance of up to 1,000 kilometers.
