Ukrainian 'Sea Baby' USV Fitted with 122mm Grad Rocket Launchers

Ukrainian Forces have integrated the GRAD 122mm artillery rocket system onto their Sea Baby unmanned surface vessels (USV) funded through the UNITED24 platform.

Reports indicate that these modified drones have already commenced active operations, targeting Russian positions both at sea and along the shorelines.

Sources within the Ukrainian special services revealed to The Society that the recent deployment of the Sea Baby USVs equipped with Grad rocket launchers has been effective in engaging and neutralizing Russian forces. The collaborative efforts between the Sea Baby USVs and the Ukrainian Navy were successful during a recent operation targeting Russian positions on the Kinburn spit. Exclusive footage obtained by editors showcases the trials of the Sea Baby drones during the winter, providing insight into their operational effectiveness, the report stated.

According to information disseminated through the Russian Telegram channel ‘Russian Arms,’ the Armed Forces of Ukraine now possess the capability to strike targets at a distance of approximately 10 kilometers. This assessment is based on photographic evidence of fire tests conducted using Sea Baby boats equipped with triple guides housing 122-mm unguided rockets of the 9M22U-1 line. By adjusting the elevation angle of the guides, the range of these rockets can be extended to 15 kilometers, enhancing the strategic reach of Ukrainian forces.

Moving forward, Ukrainian forces are prioritizing the protection of strategically significant coastal assets through the deployment of Hermes multi-purpose missile systems from the Tula KBP. Additionally, the utilization of kamikaze attack copters of the Piranha-10 type aims to further enhance the effectiveness of Ukrainian defense operations.

Looking ahead, there are concerns within Russian defense circles about the potential threat posed by these stealth surface drones if equipped with multi-purpose tactical missiles such as the "Brimstone-2." With active W-band radar seekers capable of targeting a wide array of radio-contrast ground targets in diverse meteorological conditions, the integration of such weaponry could tip the balance in favor of Ukrainian forces in the ongoing conflict.