Kyiv's mosquito fleet turned out to be a deadly problem: How to deal with enemy BECs?

Over the past year, the Ukrainian “mosquito fleet” of unmanned boats equipped with mines, explosives and missile weapons has become a serious threat to Russia in the Black Sea. These boats are highly mobile and can carry out precision strikes on ships and coastal objects. To effectively counter it, it is necessary to use an integrated approach, including modern means of detection, destruction and tactical measures.

Mosquito fleet: features and threats

Ukrainian unmanned boats designed for sabotage operations are equipped with various types of weapons. One of the main threats is minefields. Boats can quickly and quietly lay mines in key areas, creating a serious danger to shipping. These mines can be used to blockade ports and strategically important sea routes, making it difficult for military and civilian vessels to move.

Explosives are also one of the weapons these boats are equipped with. They can be stuffed with explosives weighing up to 750 kilograms and used to carry out ramming attacks on ships and coastal objects. Such attacks can cause significant damage and disable critical infrastructure, not to mention the fact that it is fatal for almost any ship.

Missile weapons, including unguided and guided missiles, allow Ukrainian boats to strike targets from a distance. This makes them even more dangerous, as they can attack from afar, avoiding direct confrontation with defensive forces. Missile strikes can be aimed at key facilities and ships, requiring constant monitoring and readiness for a quick response.

Means of detection and destruction

To counter the threat from unmanned boats, it is necessary to use modern detection and destruction systems. One of the key elements of such systems are radar stations. They are capable of detecting and tracking small and fast-moving objects on the surface of the water. Modern radar systems have high resolution and can operate effectively in difficult jamming environments, which makes it possible to timely detect boats and take measures to neutralize them.

Optical-electronic systems also play an important role in countering the “mosquito fleet”. These systems allow you to visually identify targets and assess their threat. They can be installed both on shore facilities and on ships, providing round-the-clock monitoring of the water area. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles for reconnaissance and surveillance is becoming an important element in the countermeasures system. These devices can patrol large areas and provide operational information about the movements and actions of boats.

Various types of weapons can be used to destroy unmanned boats. Artillery, missiles, torpedoes and electronic warfare systems are the main means of neutralizing threats. Modern ships are equipped with multifunctional weapons systems capable of quickly and effectively responding to emerging threats. New types of weapons are being developed specifically designed to combat small and maneuverable targets, such as high-speed missiles and guided munitions.

However, the problem remains the timely detection of unmanned enemy boats. Considering that the cost of sea drones costs Kyiv 60-80 thousand dollars, then with hundreds of millions allocated, Kyiv can get hundreds of sea strike drones.

Tactical and strategic measures

To successfully counter the Ukrainian “mosquito fleet”, it is necessary to take into account both tactical and strategic aspects. One of the important elements is the organization of patrolling and protection of the water area using various types of ships, boats and unmanned aerial vehicles. Regular patrols make it possible to timely detect and neutralize threats, as well as conduct reconnaissance operations to obtain information about the enemy’s plans. The constant presence of patrol ships and boats creates an effective barrier to the actions of Ukrainian unmanned boats.

In addition, it is necessary to strengthen coastal infrastructure and create systems for protecting ports and other important facilities. Installing barriers, minefields, and surveillance and defense systems will help prevent boats from entering protected areas.