Ukrainian Naval Drone Strikes Russian Helicopters in Black Sea Drama

Ukrainian military intelligence claims a naval drone destroyed a Russian helicopter and damaged another near Crimea's Cape Tarkhankut. This event marks the first air target downed by a Ukrainian naval drone, part of Ukraine's increased drone initiative since Russia's 2022 invasion.

Ukrainian military intelligence announced Tuesday that its naval drone had successfully destroyed a Russian helicopter and damaged another in the Black Sea, a crucial strategic area. Utilizing a Magura V5 maritime drone equipped with missiles, the Ukrainian forces struck near Cape Tarkhankut on Crimea's western coast. The GUR spy agency disclosed this achievement via Telegram.

This incident is historically significant as it's the first recorded instance of a Ukrainian naval drone downing an air target, highlighting the increased capabilities of Ukraine's drone technology. Despite the lack of independent verification from Reuters and Russia's silence on the matter, the event was reported by Russian military blogger Voenny Osvedomitel.

The Ukraine-developed drones, part of a broader initiative post-February 2022 invasion, represent a strategic advancement in maritime and aerial military tactics. Footage released by GUR shows the dramatic attack and subsequent destruction of a Mi-8 helicopter. However, independent verification of the video remains pending, as the geopolitical tension continues to rise.

(With inputs from agencies.)