The rise of sea drones in naval warfare has become a significant development, as evidenced by their utilization in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia in the Black Sea. So, what exactly are sea drones? Also referred to as drone boats or uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), these unmanned vessels can operate either on or below the water surface and come in various sizes to cater to different tasks, including military applications like mine clearance and surveillance.
How do these sea drones work? Equipped with cameras and explosives, these vessels are remotely controlled by operators who can pre-program their trajectory towards long-range targets. This feature presents a new element in naval combat.
One of the main advantages of sea drones is their cost-effectiveness and easy deployment. Ukrainian sea drones have been developed using off-the-shelf components, often with the help of crowdfunding campaigns. With a price point of approximately $250,000, these sea drones provide a viable alternative to traditional long-range missiles, offering potential cost savings. Additionally, they can be swiftly deployed without the need for a fully-trained crew, reducing risks and delays.
Ukraine has reportedly carried out at least 11 attacks using sea drones, targeting Russian military ships and naval bases. These attacks have greatly affected the progress of the conflict and pose a growing threat to Russia’s naval dominance in the Black Sea.
However, sea drones do have their limitations. While they possess low radar detectability, minimal noise, and affordability, they still face challenges in terms of their on-board sensor’s narrow field of view and constant communication requirements for those equipped with cameras. Despite these limitations, the advantages they offer make them an attractive option for Ukraine and other navies.
The successful use of sea drones by Ukraine has garnered international attention and is inspiring other navies to explore similar systems and operational practices. This marks a new era in naval warfare, as the utilization of sea drones becomes increasingly prevalent. The emergence of sea drones has truly changed the landscape of naval combat.
