(NOVOROSSIYSK, RUSSIA) – Recent Ukrainian aerial operations have successfully damaged at least four vessels belonging to the Russian Black Sea Fleet at the port of Novorossiysk.
Satellite imagery and expert assessments from open source intelligence analysts confirm that while none of the vessels were sunk, critical electronic and defensive systems were neutralised.
The most significant target hit was the Admiral Essen, an Admiral Grigorovich class frigate. The vessel sustained an impact to its central superstructure, resulting in the detonation of PK10 jamming grenade launchers used for anti-missile defence.
Additional damage was recorded to the TK25 electronic warfare complex, the ZR90 target illumination radars used for surface to air missile guidance, and the Fregat M2M long range surveillance radar. These systems are technically complex and likely to require expensive and protracted repairs.
Other vessels confirmed damaged include a Project 1241 Tarantul class missile corvette, which was struck at the rear. The impact affected the aft engine room and diesel generators, potentially disabling the ship’s propulsion and internal power.
Close in weapon systems, specifically the AK630M machine gun mounts designed to counter marine drones, were also located in the strike zone. Furthermore, a Project 12700 Alexandrit class minesweeper sustained damage to its bridge and main AK306 autocannon.
A Grisha class corvette also showed evidence of a strike, with fire suppression foam visible on the adjacent dock, suggesting a fire was extinguished following an onboard impact.
The Admiral Essen is a modern warship, commissioned in 2016, and is frequently used by the Russian dictator to launch Kalibr, Oniks, and Zircon cruise missiles against Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings, hospitals, and schools. Experts suggest that with its air defence radars currently offline, the vessel remains highly vulnerable to follow up strikes.
