The British Ministry of Defense published a satellite image of the Russian Black Sea Fleet pier in Novorossiysk, showing what it describes as large anti-drone cages installed over submarines. According to the British, three submarines already carry such protection, and a fourth is expected to receive it soon.
The British Ministry of Defense released a satellite image on Saturday showing the Russian Black Sea Fleet submarine berth at the port of Novorossiysk, with large anti-drone cages installed over at least three submarines. The publication, circulated via defense correspondents, aims to highlight Russia's efforts to protect its naval assets from Ukrainian drone attacks after repeated strikes on Black Sea targets.
As The Zioneer has reported, the region has seen a series of drone attacks and maritime incidents, including a Ukrainian strike on a shadow fleet tanker in the Black Sea on June 10 and local reports of a drone attack on Novorossiysk itself on June 17. The new satellite image appears to confirm that Russia is adapting its defensive posture by adding overhead anti-drone covers — a notable shift from traditional external netting or point-defense systems.
The British assessment notes that three submarines already carry the upgraded protection and that a fourth is likely to be fitted soon. Moscow has not officially commented on the image or the claims. The Novorossiysk naval base is a critical hub for Russia's Black Sea Fleet, which has faced growing pressure from Ukrainian long-range drones and naval drones.
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