British Intelligence Reveals Consequences Of Strike On Russian Submarine In Novorossiysk

• 20.12.2025, 16:59

The SBU conducted an unprecedented operation.

British intelligence has analyzed the consequences of a nighttime SBU strike on a Russian Varshavyanka-class submarine in the port of Novorossiysk, carried out by unmanned underwater vehicles.

This is stated in overview by the UK Ministry of Defense.

"The Sub Sea Baby drone strike is likely to have caused significant damage to the submarine, leaving it unable to sail or perform tasks on its own. The submarine is a platform capable of carrying Kalibr missiles, which has been used to strike targets in Ukraine," the review said.

Russian submarine still in port after attack

British intelligence reports that the stricken Russian submarine was still in port as of Dec. 18.

According to open sources, other Russian ships have left the Novorossiysk naval base as a precautionary measure to reduce the risk of potential further Ukrainian strikes.

"Ukraine's successful strike, which broke through Novorossiysk's layered defenses, clearly demonstrates the rapid development of the skill and capabilities of Ukraine's naval forces, particularly in the use of unmanned systems," the review said.

It added that this could "significantly undermine the Russian military leadership's confidence in measures to protect Russia's Black Sea Fleet."