Ukraine strikes Crimean bridge using covert underwater tactics
The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) conducted a covert operation involving a strike on the Crimean Bridge—this time using a precise underwater explosion—reports the portal United24 Media. The large amounts of equipment that the Russians amassed on land didn't prevent the Ukrainians from striking.
The Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) completed a months-long operation targeting the Crimean Bridge. The attack was conducted at 05:44 AM GMT, using approximately 1 tonne of explosives (TNT equivalent). The explosion seriously damaged the underwater pillars of the bridge, according to United24 Media.
The operation was planned and executed with complete secrecy. The Crimean Bridge, a crucial link in Russian military logistics, was significantly damaged. General Vasyl Malyuk, head of the SBU, personally supervised the entire action.
"We struck the Crimean Bridge in 2022 and 2023. Today, we continued this tradition – this time underwater," explained the military officer.
Malyuk emphasised that the Crimean Bridge is a legitimate target because Russia uses it as a logistical artery to supply its troops. "Crimea is Ukraine, and any manifestations of occupation will receive our tough response," he added.
This is the third successful Ukrainian attack on the Crimean Bridge since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, but the first using underwater tactics. Previously, Vice Admiral Oleksiy Neizhpapa, commander of the Ukrainian Navy, mentioned plans for a third operation against the bridge.
Russians protecting the Crimean Bridge
Let us recall that the Russians have long been accumulating large quantities of air defence equipment around the Crimean Bridge. Current observations indicate that primarily Pantsir-S1 and S-300/400 complexes operate in this area.
The S-400 system is characterised by its ability to simultaneously monitor up to 80 targets and guide up to 160 missiles. It can attack objects up to 400 kilometres away and move at altitudes of up to 30 kilometres. This system is effective against both aircraft and ballistic missiles.
On the other hand, although the S-300 complex is based on older technology, it still plays a vital role in air defence. It can simultaneously track 100 targets and attack objects up to a maximum range of 200 kilometres, located at altitudes of up to 27 kilometres. The S-300 missiles reach speeds of up to 8,000 kilometres per hour.
The Pantsir-S1, on the other hand, is a system that integrates missile and artillery functions. It is equipped with 30 mm guns capable of firing up to 2,500 rounds per minute, enabling the destruction of targets within a 4-kilometre radius. The missile component consists of 12 launchers, which can target objects up to 19 kilometres away and at altitudes of up to 14 kilometres. Additionally, the system has two radars used for detecting and tracking targets.
