Early on December 26 the Russian large landing ship Novocherkassk erupted in a pilar of fire while docked in occupied Crimea. The vessel can be used to transport armored vehicles, troops, and supplies, and was suspected by Kyiv of transporting munitions supplied by Iran. Russian sources claim the vessel was struck by a cruise missile launched from a Ukrainian aircraft. Full details of the attack have not been confirmed, though it is believed that the ship went to the bottom while another nearby vessel was damaged. The extent of damage to the port facility is unknown. Coming on the heels of several aircraft losses, this attack serves as a reminder of Russia’s precarious situation in Crimea and of the opportunities available to Ukraine should they improve their deep strike capabilities.

Even with the assets at their disposal Ukraine has managed to neutralize the Black Sea fleet. A combination of naval drones, sea mines, Neptune missiles, and now Stormshadow and ATACMs have sent many major surface combatants to the bottom of the Black Sea limited tactical options for the remainder of Russia’s fleet. Russian warships provide a deep fires capability in the form of cruise missiles, and by pushing the Russian fleet back from the area of operations, Ukrainian air defenses gain additional time to intercept these weapons. Ukraine has also limited Russia’s ability to conduct a successful naval blockade and has maintained a narrow corridor for vessels exporting Ukrainian grain. Continued strikes against Russian port facilities in Crimea make it difficult for Russia to supply its forces on the peninsula, rendering their position their increasingly precarious.

About the Author

Cam

Cam served as an infantry officer in the Marine Corps, deploying to the Horn of Africa and participating in combat operations in Iraq. He currently works in the maritime industry and in the defense sector as an instructor of combined arms planning and operations. An avid sailor, Cam founded and directs Triumph Sailing, a nonprofit that supports veterans and first responders through adventure and fellowship on the water. Triumph Sailing just completed its big yearly event, an offshore race in the Gulf of Mexico with an all veteran crew. You can support the mission and next year's sailing season at Tri-Sail.Org.