Main image: The latest version of Ukraine's Security Service (SSU) "sea baby" naval drone sails, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in an undisclosed location in Ukraine October 17, 2025. REUTERS/Vlad Smilianets
The Ukrainian Navy considers the possible deployment of unmanned boats by Russia in the Black Sea a real and ongoing threat, according to Navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk. Russia has periodically released information about developing such technologies, and unmanned boats—known as BECs—were already in service before the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
“We must remain vigilant, because Russia has limited options for projecting power at sea,” Pletenchuk said, highlighting the strategic risk posed by these systems.
He noted that Ukraine itself is emerging as a leader in unmanned naval technology. Recent joint exercises with NATO off the coast of Portugal demonstrated Ukraine’s capabilities in both autonomous systems and battle management. During the drills, Ukrainian personnel led key operations, while other defense and security units participated with conventional equipment. Ukrainian drones played the central role in executing the exercises, underscoring Kyiv’s growing expertise in maritime unmanned operations.
Pletenchuk emphasized that the exercises not only tested technical proficiency but also reinforced coordination and command capacity, preparing Ukrainian forces to respond effectively to potential Russian threats in the Black Sea.
