Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
The previous versions have wrecked havoc on Russian targets during the war, and the updated version will be even more effective.
The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has unveiled a new generation of its Sea Baby unmanned surface vessels (USVs).
Officials say the upgraded platforms have already been used in combat and have demonstrated “significant” results at sea.
The latest Sea Baby models extend the drones’ operational range and striking power. During the unveiling, the service displayed two variants equipped with different weapon systems.
Already tested against Putin’s bridge
According to the SSU, the new boats have been tested in missions across the Black Sea this year, including an operation connected to the June 3 attack on the Crimean Bridge.
“Our drones have changed the balance of power in the Black Sea and proven their effectiveness. The new generation of Sea Baby is even more capable. Therefore, our efforts to clear the Black Sea of the Russian fleet will continue. The enemy will feel the full force of our technological developments,” said SSU Head Lieutenant General Vasyl Maliuk in a press release.
The SSU stated that the upgraded drones can travel over 1,500 kilometers and carry up to 2,000 kilograms – an extraordinary payload for USV’ – as they now feature reinforced engines and modern navigation systems.
Funding for the modifications, the agency said, came in part from Ukrainian donations gathered through the UNITED24 platform.
Two prototypes, distinct firepower
The two prototypes displayed feature markedly different armaments.
One mounts a gyro-stabilized machine-gun system with auto-capture and automated target recognition.
The other is fitted with a heavy rocket pack described as a 10-round Grad multiple-launch rocket system.
“The Security Service of Ukraine is the driving force behind a new type of naval warfare. We are constantly searching for effective means to maintain Ukraine’s superiority in the Black Sea for as long as possible.
President Volodymyr Zelensky tasked us with neutralizing the powerful Russian Black Sea Fleet. We are actively working toward that goal,” said Brigadier General Ivan Lukashevych.
Pushing the Russian navy back
Ukrainian officials argue that the broader use of unmanned maritime platforms has altered Russian operations in the region.
Kyiv says the pressure from naval drones has pushed many Russian ships toward Novorossiysk and helped reopen maritime export routes.
The SSU added that additional new models are in development and that some have already been deployed, though officials declined to release further technical details.
See the updated Sea Babies being presented on Youtube by clicking here.
This article is made and published by Jens Asbjørn Bogen, which may have used AI in the preparation
