Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) reported that a Magura V5 maritime drone, equipped with missile weaponry, successfully struck an aerial target for the first time in military history.
In a statement, HUR said the drone hit a Russian Mi-8 helicopter on December 31 during a clash in the Black Sea near Cape Tarkhankut, in western Crimea. Ukrainian intelligence claims the drone used R-73 SeaDragon missiles in the strike.
The HUR added that another Russian helicopter was “hit by fire” during the battle but managed to return to its base.
The agency also released video footage that it says shows the moment the Mi-8 helicopter was hit.
The strike came as Ukrainian drones launched an overnight assault on Crimea on December 31. Mikhail Razvozhayev, the Russian-appointed governor of annexed Sevastopol, said Russian forces intercepted four aerial targets and two maritime drones during the attack. Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that air defense systems shot down 17 drones over Crimea during the night.
Meduza survived 2024 thanks to its readers!
Let’s stick together for 2025.
The world is at a crossroads today, and quality journalism will help shape the decades to come. Real stories must be told at any cost. Please support Meduza by signing up for a recurring donation.