What is the significance of the Sea Baby drone for operations in the Black Sea?

What is the significance of the Sea Baby drone for operations in the Black Sea?

Uncrewed boats were used to attack Russian ships, as well as to participate in the explosion of the Crimean Bridge. Their main tactic is stealthy approach to the target and delivering a powerful strike.

In addition to unmanned aerial vehicles, Ukraine is actively developing maritime uncrewed systems designed for attack and reconnaissance operations. Among them is the Sea Baby uncrewed boat, developed exclusively by specialists from the Security Service of Ukraine without the involvement of external companies. Focus has gathered information about the technical specifications, features, and combat application of this marine drone.

The specific technical specifications of the device are classified, but an analysis of images from open sources allows basic construction elements to be highlighted. In particular, experts noted the following details:

• antenna dome – likely used for communication and control via satellite channels;
• the presence of an electro-optical system providing the operator with precise targeting capability at any time of day;
• additional fuel tanks to increase range;
• various engine options – according to some data, the drone can be equipped with both water jet and propeller propulsion systems.

It is worth noting that in May of last year, the head of the Security Service of Ukraine, Vasyl Malyuk, announced significant upgrades to the Sea Baby drone, specifically the integration of Grad multiple launch rocket systems. This update indicates that the drone represents a versatile multi-functional platform for performing a wide range of tasks.

As for combat application, Sea Baby marine drones have been used in attacks on Russian ships, including large landing ships and military vessels. Their main tactic is stealthy approach to the target and delivering a powerful strike. These drones also played a key role in the explosion of the Crimean Bridge in 2023, as well as in attacks on Russian ships in the Black Sea.