A Ukrainian naval drone has reportedly destroyed a Russian explosive drone boat in what is described as the first direct clash between uncrewed surface vessels. The incident highlights how both sides are rapidly adapting naval drones for reconnaissance, attacks and counter-drone operations in the Black Sea.

On 12 September, a Ukrainian Sargan-3000 used a remotely operated 12.7 mm machine gun to fire on a Russian Orcan drone from about one kilometre away, first severing its communications and then sinking it. The Sargan-3000 can reportedly reach 40–55 knots, travel up to 1,600 kilometres and carry a 450-kilogram payload; Ukraine has also used similar vessels for explosive attacks, amphibious operations and launching smaller drones. Russia is developing comparable capabilities, raising concerns about wider threats to shipping and offshore infrastructure.