The Ukrainian drone flew over a large area of Russia and was not intercepted.
British intelligence confirms the damage to at least two Russian Gepard-class frigates in the Caspian Sea as a result of a strike as part of a special operation by the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
This was reported by the British Ministry of Defense, citing intelligence data.
On November 6, 2024, Ukraine likely attacked with an unmanned aerial vehicle device at the port of Kaspiysk in Russia. At the time of the strike, several Russian Navy ships were likely in the port, including at least two Gepard-class frigates, which were likely damaged.
The extent of the damage to the ships is unknown, but it is likely that the vessels will be repaired quickly.
“Russia's Caspian flotilla was likely used to launch massive attacks on Ukrainian territory in 2022 and to carry out strikes throughout 2023-2024. However, it is unlikely that the Russian ships that were damaged during the Ukrainian strike were used to directly strike Ukrainian territory,” the Defense Ministry noted.
Amid Russia's current low activity in the Black Sea, this attack demonstrated that Ukraine can carry out strikes. against Russian targets in areas previously considered safe for operations.
The department adds that the Ukrainian drone most likely flew over a significant area of Russia and was not intercepted. Such an attack would likely cause concern among Russia's political and military leadership.