Russian Black Sea Fleet crippled by Ukrainian drone, missile strikes
The Russian Black Sea Fleet has not been faring well recently. Ukrainian drone and missile attacks have significantly weakened its capabilities, forcing the ships to remain docked. This information was highlighted by the UK's Defence Minister, Grant Shapps, who stated on the X platform that the Black Sea Fleet is "currently functionally inactive." Notably, the Ukrainians have targeted two large landing ships - the Yamal and the Azov.
"Putin's ongoing illegal occupation of Ukraine is incurring hefty costs for the Russian Black Sea Fleet, rendering it functionally inactive. Despite Russia's presence in the Black Sea since 1783, it is now compelled to dock its fleet in the port. Even there, Putin's ships are sinking!" Grant Shapps, the UK Defence Minister, emphasised on the X platform.
Black Sea Fleet in distress?
The dire situation of the Black Sea Fleet has not gone unnoticed, even beyond the West. As previously mentioned, its challenges were exposed on Telegram by Russian military expert Vladislav Shurygin. He believes that the commanders of the Russian Navy failed to grasp the rapidly evolving nature of warfare and the critical role of naval forces within it. This has resulted in significant setbacks for the Black Sea Fleet and forced it into a defensive posture within ports.
This strategy has not shielded the fleet from further assaults. This is exemplified by the recent change in leadership of the Black Sea Fleet. Steven Pifer, former US ambassador to Ukraine, commented on the X platform: "Ukraine greets the new commander of the Russian navy with attacks on two more ships of the Black Sea Fleet." He was referring to the assaults on the aforementioned Yamal and Azov. The full extent of the damage to these ships is not yet clear, but it is doubtful they will be returning to service anytime soon, if at all.
It is understood that the Ukrainians have utilised Storm Shadow missiles in these attacks. These are conventional, tactical, long-range cruise missiles with a weight of about 1,300 kg (including a warhead weight of about 450 kg), and a length of around 5 metres. The missile can travel at speeds of approximately 1,000 km/h and strike targets up to 250 kilometres away. Potential targets may include air bases, significant communication hubs, or port facilities. Excelling in any conditions, the high speed and low-altitude flight capability of Storm Shadow missiles make them difficult to detect.
