The war in the Black Sea has been shaped, perhaps even defined, by maritime drones. Until now, this has been an arena dominated by Ukraine, with Russia lagging behind Ukraine in the introduction of unmanned surface vessels (USVs). Now Russia appears to be slowly getting into the game with increasingly credible plans.
The latest type, the Murena-300C, appears to be broadly comparable to Ukrainian types. And more importantly, it appears to have a Starlink antenna.
The Murena (moray eel) is about the same size as the Ukrainian Magura V5 and Sea Navy designs. According to specifications shared at the Army-2024 defense exhibition The maximum speed is 45 knots. The range is 500 km, but it seems like it is intended for coastal operations rather than open sea operations. The manufacturer, LLC KB Center for Unmanned Systems, promotes it for defense of naval facilities, minelaying, mine clearance, patrolling and reconnaissance. It is also intended to provide fire support for ground operations from the sea. Realistically, the stated payload of 500 kg could be equivalent to a large explosive charge.
The vessel has a simple metal semi-planing motorboat hull similar to the classic Soviet-era “Progress” series. This is combined with a relatively flat superstructure. Unlike most, but not all, Ukrainian designs, it has an outboard engine. There are some signs that the vessel on display is crudely constructed. It is unclear whether this is simply poor workmanship or simply expediency for a disposable vessel. This could make it more vulnerable to defensive fire. USV combat is not a beauty contest.
The Starlink link
Starlink satellite communications have played a key role in enabling Ukrainian drones to operate so effectively. Together with the competing Kymeta system, it allows the drones to be controlled in real time. This has enabled a human-in-the-loop approach to attacking enemy ships, with the pilot on land literally guiding the USV to the target. This was only possible thanks to the data rate and reliability of these systems.
The Murena 300C’s Starlink antenna was hidden under a camouflage net, but its distinctive shape is clearly visible. In photos from the event, the corners of the square antenna can just be seen.
Russian troops can purchase Starlink abroad with a number of terminals purchased on the open market. Since the use by Russian troops came to light earlier this year, Pentagon and SpaceX cooperatethat manufacture it to prevent Russia from using it. How effective this will be remains to be seen. The fact that the ship has an antenna suggests that it is not completely written off.
The antenna may be for another satellite network, or perhaps it’s just a prop designed as a smokescreen. While the manufacturer doesn’t mention Starlink, it does claim “online jam-proof GNSS,” which fits. In addition, the USV is advertised as having an inertial navigation system (INS), electro-optical sensors, infrared thermal imaging, and LIDAR.
Russian companies have developed a number of UPSs in response to the Ukrainian UPSs. The most credible so far has been the BBKN Dandelion which is similar in size and function to the Murena. The two types appear to be similar in their capabilities. But if the Russians can successfully deploy Starlink, the Murena will have a clear advantage
