Ukraine’s Flagship Naval Vessel ‘Simferopol’ Sunk in Russian Drone Strike

Ukraine has suffered a significant naval loss after its largest active warship, the reconnaissance vessel Simferopol, was sunk in a Russian strike using unmanned sea drones. The incident occurred in the Danube River delta, a strategic route near the Black Sea, where both sides have increasingly turned to drone technology for dominance.

According to Ukrainian officials, at least one sailor was killed, several others remain unaccounted for, and search operations are underway. Most of the crew managed to evacuate before the vessel went down.

The Simferopol, commissioned in 2021, was the most advanced naval ship introduced into Ukraine’s fleet since 2014. Designed as a Laguna-class reconnaissance vessel, it was equipped with sophisticated radar and electronic surveillance systems, enabling it to monitor maritime activity across contested waters.

For Russia, the strike marks its first confirmed success with naval drones, highlighting how unmanned platforms are reshaping modern warfare. Analysts warn that the attack represents a turning point, showing how inexpensive autonomous systems can neutralize high-value warships that are otherwise costly to defend.

With the Black Sea and Danube region already central to the war’s maritime front, the loss of Simferopol is seen as both a tactical and symbolic setback for Ukraine’s navy, while signaling Russia’s intent to expand its use of unmanned strike capabilities at sea.