In a recent strategic maneuver, Russia has deployed three submarines armed with cruise missiles into the Black Sea, a move highlighting growing military tensions in the region.
First Time Such a Fleet Has Been Dispatched
According to Tech Captain Dmytro Pletenczuk, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Naval Forces, noted this unprecedented deployment, marking the first time such a significant underwater fleet has been dispatched in these waters by Russia.
This deployment follows Russia's recent withdrawal of its last patrol ship from Crimea, indicating a shift in naval strategy. The remaining vessels, including logistical and landing ships, have reportedly been moved to the ports of Novorossiysk and the Sea of Azov, with only non-operational units left behind in Crimea.
This includes the "Konstantin Olszanski" landing ship, captured by Russia in 2014.
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Renowned For Their Stealth Capabilities
Russia's concerns over Ukrainian attacks, particularly with kamikaze drones and missiles such as the Storm Shadow and RK-360 Neptune, have likely prompted these changes. These attacks have inflicted considerable damage on the Russian Black Sea Fleet, with notable incidents including the September 2023 strike on the "Minsk" landing ship and the "Rostov-on-Don" submarine in Sevastopol.
The submarines, part of Russia's Project 636.3, also known as the "Warszawianka" class, are advanced versions of the Kilo-class submarines. These vessels are renowned for their stealth capabilities and are equipped with Kalibr cruise missiles, capable of engaging land and naval targets up to 2,500 km away. This deployment underscores the heightened state of alert and the strategic recalibration by Russia amidst ongoing regional conflicts.
