The Security Service of Ukraine is revealing previously unknown details of the preparation for the strike on the russian submarine in the port of Novorossiysk. A key stage of this special operation was the destruction of a russian anti-submarine warfare aircraft that could have detected and disrupted the attack.

In preparation for the strike on the submarine, the 13^th Main Directorate of the SSU Military Counterintelligence Department destroyed a modernised Il-38N Sea Dragon reconnaissance aircraft at Yeysk airbase.

The Il-38N is designed for maritime reconnaissance, submarine detection, sea area control, mine-laying operations, and torpedo attacks. At the time, it was actively countering the SSU’s maritime drone operation. The estimated value of the aircraft is USD 24 million.

In the Black Sea, russia had only one aircraft of this type capable of detecting the Sub Sea Baby underwater drone during its approach to the target. The elimination of this anti-submarine platform ensured the success of the main phase of the special operation – the strike on the Varshavianka-class submarine (NATO designation: Kilo).

To destroy the Il-38N, the SSU used a modern drone with an above-ground warhead featuring two thousand downward-facing striking elements. The detonation occurred directly above the compartment with the main equipment and radars, and also damaged the engine.

The released video footage of the successful attack highlights the actual level of protection of enemy strategic assets, which differs significantly from internal assessments and public statements by russia’s ministry of defence.

The Security Service of Ukraine will continue to work on legitimate military targets and strike enemy assets where they least expect it.