The Ukrainian Armed Forces successfully targeted and sunk the Russian submarine Rostov-on-Don, which was undergoing repairs at the Sevastopol naval base.
Struck by Shadow Missiles
This event marks a significant blow to Russia’s naval capabilities, and recent developments indicate that Russia is attempting to obscure the extent of this loss, according to Tech.
The Rostov-on-Don, a Kilo-class submarine of Project 636.3, was struck by Ukrainian Storm Shadow missiles during an assault on Crimea on September 13, 2023.
The attack caused considerable damage, but the submarine was later moved to Sevastopol for repairs. Despite the effort to restore the vessel, another Ukrainian strike in August 2024 resulted in the submarine sinking at its docked location.
Revealed by Sattelite Imagery
Satellite imagery has revealed that Russia appears to be concealing the loss of the submarine. Analysts have identified what seems to be a makeshift decoy or camouflage intended to mislead observers. This decoy is notably less accurate in size compared to the original submarine.
The fake submarine measures around 56 meters, whereas the actual Rostov-on-Don is approximately 74 meters long. Additionally, efforts to obscure the wreck's location using a tarpaulin have been noted.
The Rostov-on-Don, commissioned in late 2014, was a prominent asset in Russia’s naval fleet. It is equipped with advanced stealth technology designed to minimize detection and operates primarily in coastal waters.
The submarine's armament includes torpedo tubes, mines, and Kalibr missiles, making it a formidable vessel in Russia's underwater arsenal.
