Ukraine needs unmanned submarines to defeat Russia’s Black Sea Fleet

Renowned researcher H I Sutton has published an article on the Naval News portal that provides a brief overview of the Ukrainian FURY underwater drone project. It mentions that the first public presentation is set for January 28 as part of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine's Army of Machines hackathon. The paper also explains why Ukraine needs underwater drones, which can be far more expensive and sophisticated than surface 'kamikaze' boats, at this point in the conflict with Russia.

With the advent of 'kamikaze' boats, Ukraine was able to maintain a technological advantage over the Russian Black Sea Fleet and keep one step ahead of the adversary. But as these kinds of weapons were used in combat, it became clear that surface drones are easily found and neutralized by Russian naval aircraft as well as by other means.

"And from here, we can draw the conclusion that eventually the invading Russian forces will be able to adjust, negating the benefit of the 'kamikaze' boats," Defense Express analysts said.

H.I. Sutton continues, though, by explaining that rather than giving up on 'kamikaze' boats as a tactic for maritime warfare, Ukraine could focus on developing subsurface drones, or autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), in addition to surface drones.

There are several benefits to using underwater drones, including increased stealth, surprise assault, and survivability. They will, however, undoubtedly cost more than surface vessels and will undoubtedly need support from Western manufacturers of remotely operated underwater vehicles.

This will only apply, though, if all expenses are warranted. Underwater drones, for instance, might eventually be reusable and equipped with guided missiles, mines, and torpedoes, among other weapons, as development continues.