Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces Strike Russian Shadow Fleet Vessels
Ukraine‘s Unmanned Systems Forces (USF) struck 11 vessels belonging to Russia‘s shadow fleet in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov on July 16.
According to Commander Robert “Magyar” Brovdi, the USF targeted five oil tankers, one LNG tanker, three bulk carriers, and two tugboats. The operation, dubbed Operation MoLoCHKa, was conducted from July 6 to 16, resulting in a total of 147 vessels being struck.
Details of the Strikes
Brovdi reported that 10 vessels were struck in the Black Sea and one in the Sea of Azov. He specified that 117 vessels have been struck in the Sea of Azov and 30 in the Black Sea.
The commander emphasized that the goal of the operation is to disrupt the transport of oil, fuel, and other cargo carried in circumvention of international sanctions. “The objective is not to pollute the waters with oil spills, so there are no hull breaches,” he noted.
Military Units Involved
Brovdi revealed that the 9th Kairos Battalion of the 414th Magyar’s Birds Separate Brigade, the 1st Separate Centre of the USF, and the 20th K-2 Separate Brigade were involved in striking the five oil tankers in the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov. The LNG tanker and two tugboats in the Black Sea were struck by the 1st Separate Centre, while the three bulk carriers were targeted by the 9th Kairos Battalion.
Background on Operation MoLoCHKa
On the night of July 14-15, Ukrainian drone units struck 20 vessels belonging to Russia‘s shadow fleet in the Black Sea. This operation marked a significant escalation of Ukraine‘s efforts to disrupt Russian supply chains and circumvent international sanctions.
The strikes demonstrate Ukraine‘s commitment to defending its territorial waters and preventing the transport of illegal goods. As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia continues, it remains to be seen how these operations will impact the global energy market and international relations.
Original Article: Ukrainian drones strike 11 more vessels belonging to Russia’s shadow fleet – video — Ukrainska Pravda