Russian forces have begun equipping Project 21980 “Grachonok” anti-sabotage patrol boats with improvised anti-drone netting following a series of Ukrainian naval drone attacks near the Kerch Bridge in occupied Crimea.
We bring you stories from the ground. Your support keeps our team in the field.
DONATE NOW
Images showing the modified vessels were published on May 11 by Ukrainian volunteer and blogger Serhii Sternenko. The photos appear to show protective metal-frame structures and netting installed over sections of the boats in an apparent attempt to counter Ukrainian uncrewed surface vessels and aerial drones.
The “Grachonok”-class boats are used by Russia to patrol and secure waters surrounding the Kerch Bridge, the key logistics connection between occupied Crimea and Russia.
The visible modifications follow several recent Ukrainian strikes targeting Russian patrol boats operating in the area.
Project 21980 “Grachonok” anti-sabotage patrol boat before and after the installation of anti-drone protective netting, May 2026. (Source: STERNENKO)
According to the Ukrainian Navy on April 30, Ukrainian naval drones struck two Russian vessels guarding the Kerch Bridge during a nighttime operation in occupied Crimea. The attack reportedly damaged a Project 21980 “Grachonok” anti-sabotage boat and a Project 12200 “Sobol” patrol boat.
Footage released after the strike showed Ukrainian uncrewed surface vessels approaching Russian boats at high speed before impact. Ukrainian officials stated the targeted vessels were responsible for protecting the maritime zone around the bridge.
The strike on the “Grachonok” boat killed nine Russian servicemen and injured two others. The reported casualty count exceeded the standard crew size of the vessel, suggesting additional personnel may have been onboard during the attack.
Read more
CategoryWar in UkraineUkraine Hits Russian Kalibr Missile Warship Deep in the Caspian Sea
May 07, 2026 16:47
The same incident was referenced in later reports describing Russian efforts to improve protection for patrol craft operating around occupied Crimea and the Kerch Strait.
Project 21980 “Grachonok” boats are designed for anti-sabotage and harbor protection missions, including the defense of naval bases and strategic maritime infrastructure. The vessels are equipped with hydroacoustic systems such as “Kalmar” and “Anapa,” intended to detect underwater activity and combat divers.
Their standard armament includes a 14.5 mm naval machine gun mount, DP-65A and DP-64 anti-diver grenade launchers, and portable air-defense systems such as Igla and Verba.
Read more
CategoryLatest newsHow Ukraine Broke Russia’s Black Sea Fleet—Ship by Ship, Strike by Strike
Apr 17, 2026 16:55
Russia’s Black Sea Fleet is estimated to operate nine “Grachonok”-class boats, including the vessel reportedly struck near the Kerch Bridge. Additional units are operated by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) Border Service in southern regions.
The Kerch Bridge area has become a frequent target for Ukrainian maritime operations aimed at disrupting Russian military logistics between occupied Crimea and mainland Russia.
Earlier, the Security Service of Ukraine reported damaging multiple Russian naval assets during operations in occupied Crimea, including another Project 21980 “Grachonok” boat. According to the SBU on April 18, Ukrainian drones struck Russian ships, radar systems, fuel infrastructure, and communications equipment used by the Black Sea Fleet.
