Black Sea Fleet frigates damaged in Ukrainian strike on Novorossiysk

Satellite imagery and reports indicate that a Ukrainian strike on August 12 against the naval base in Novorossiysk has severely damaged two Russian Black Sea Fleet frigates: the Admiral Makarov and the Admiral Essen.

The Admiral Makarov, which serves as the fleet's flagship following the sinking of the Moskva in 2022, reportedly sustained a visible hole on its upper deck near the Kalibr missile launchers. Damage may also include the destruction of the Kentaur-NM1 satellite communication station and the Pozitiv-M1 radar. The Admiral Essen also sustained fire damage, specifically to its UKSK 3S14 missile launch system.

Analysts suggest the vessels have lost their offensive capabilities and combat control abilities, likely requiring long-term dock repairs that could last at least a year. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the operation as unique, noting the use of Paljanica jet drones, Neptune missiles, and maritime unmanned systems to strike the base.