“Another world first”: Ukraine’s submarine strike signals new era of underwater drone warfare

2025-12-17 14:12 3 min

Ukraine's maritime drone strike on a Russian submarine in port would be “another world first and is likely a harbinger of things to come," if confirmed, say experts from The War Zone. Similar developments in maritime drones are also being pursued by the US and China, with China making significant investments in this area.

Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), together with the Navy, has struck a Russian Project 636.3 Varshavyanka-class submarine in the port of Novorossiysk using Sub Sea Baby underwater drones. For NATO and maritime nations, this is a signal to reconsider standards for base protection.

The War Zone also reports it has received additional confirmation from the SBU that a submarine in the military harbor of Novorossiysk was struck by the Sub Sea Baby maritime drone.

From surface to underwater platforms

It is noted that little is known about the Sub Sea Baby underwater drone. However, it should not be confused with the Sea Baby surface drones, which have already inflicted damage on the Russian Navy.

"Today’s UUV attack appears to be the culmination of Ukraine’s development of these weapons and once again shows that the war-torn country is at the forefront of modern drone warfare innovation," says the report.

The portal reminded readers that Ukraine is developing several maritime unmanned aerial vehicles. Among them is the “Marichka” UAV, revealed in September 2023, designed for strikes on ships and maritime infrastructure. Earlier that year, the “Toloka” UAV was also reported.

Russian ships are losing "safe zones"

Analysts suggest that the strike will have consequences. The proven combat capability of the Sub Sea Baby drones will expose Russian vessels to even greater risk.

"As a result, we will also be seeing a change in Russia’s defensive posture at the sprawling port located on the northeastern edge of the Black Sea," the analysts predicted.

They conclude that the submarine strike serves as yet another reminder that in the war in Ukraine, “theory and development are being put into practice.”