According to information published by Obozrevatel on August 25, 2023, Ukraine is currently testing Marichka, a new underwater drone to target the Russian Black Sea fleet.
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Artist rendering of the Ukrainian Marichka underwater drone. (Picture source: AMMO Ukraine)
Designed to counter electronic warfare systems, especially those utilized by Russian forces, the Marichka drone is a testament to Ukraine's advancements in naval technology.
Yuri Mysiagin, the deputy chair of the Ukrainian Parliament's Committee on National Security, Defense, and Intelligence, recently drew attention to its testing phase through a tweet that featured a video.
Marichka stands out due to its versatility. It's equipped to target enemy ships, coastal defenses, submarines, and also to conduct reconnaissance missions.
Measuring 6 meters in length and 1 meter in width, it has an impressive strike range of up to 1,000 kilometers. Among its key attributes are silent operation, a significant explosive payload, and the ability to counter enemy electronic warfare.
Engineered for discretion, Marichka can evade many standard radars and sonars. Its autonomous design means it can remain inactive underwater for long durations, only to activate and continue its mission when necessary.
Beyond its combative features, it surpasses many contemporary missiles and torpedoes in range. Additionally, it can be used for cargo transport and reconnaissance, targeting a variety of structures, both submerged and above water, such as bridge supports and coastal defenses.
Building on Ukraine's commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities, another noteworthy development is the Toloka TLK-150. This drone, measuring 2.5 meters (8 feet) in length, is characterized by its twin thrusters mounted on small wing-like stabilizers, enabling agile movements and precise underwater positioning.
It's further stabilized by a pronounced keel, a distinct rudder, and forward-mounted dive planes. Emphasizing stealth and efficiency, the Toloka TLK-150 has a design that minimizes its acoustic signature, making it challenging for adversaries to detect. Its propulsion system is adept at covering vast distances or maintaining a stationary position for extended periods.
