Ukraine Unveils Innovative Sea Drone Aircraft Carrier

Ukraine has introduced a new sea drone capable of carrying and launching other unmanned vehicles directly from open water. This innovation, known as the MV11, was created by the Ukrainian defense start-up UFORCE. The unveiling occurred during a parade showcasing drones on the ground, in the air, and at sea in Kyiv, coinciding with Ukraine’s independence day celebrations.

Oleh Rohynskyi, UFORCE’s chief executive, emphasized the MV11’s potential. Rohynskyi stated it would play a pivotal role in successful missions, bolstering efforts against adversaries. Although Ukraine lacks a major naval force, it effectively uses long-range missiles and drones, both airborne and maritime, to target Russian interests in the Black Sea.

Sea drones often function as kamikaze weapons, capturing dramatic footage as they collide with costly enemy ships. They are also effective in reconnaissance missions, identifying potential targets. Their low water travel and stealthy profiles make them challenging for Russian defenses to detect before attacking.

Following Ukraine’s advancements, Russia has started creating its own fleet of Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs), with intelligence reports indicating a focus on attack units within its naval fleets. Estonia has warned about Russia’s expanding capabilities in this domain.

UFORCE is known for its Magura sea drones, used by Ukraine’s GUR military intelligence agency against Russian vessels. The Ukrainian SBU security agency favors the SeaBaby USVs.

During the independence day event, nine Ukrainian USVs sailed down Kyiv’s Dnieper River. Among these, a Magura USV reportedly became the first to destroy a flying target, successfully downing a Russian Su-30 fighter jet in May 2025.

Details of the Magura MV11 Marine Drone

The Magura MV11 is the latest and largest model in its series. The Magura drones have undergone regular upgrades, now equipped with machine guns and surface-to-air missiles. According to Rohynskyi, the MV11 is not merely a large maritime drone but functions as a carrier. It can transport and deploy various unmanned systems for diverse operations far from shore.

This sea drone can operate at sea for up to a week, carrying up to 2,200 kilograms of equipment, including sensors, fuel, missiles, and other drones. It accommodates up to 18 Sting interceptor drones, each armed with explosive warheads. Additionally, a fixed camera aids navigation, similar to other USVs.

Implications for Ukraine’s Military Operations

Although the MV11 may not dramatically alter Ukraine’s current use of its drone fleet against Russian targets, it represents a valuable enhancement in the Black Sea arena. U.K.-based drone expert Steve Wright suggests this weapon system allows for longer presence in contested areas, denying enemy access preemptively.

The technology integrated into this ‘drone aircraft carrier’ leverages existing advancements, simplifying its assembly.

NATO monitors Ukraine’s application of these naval drones closely. The alliance values the lessons learned from Ukraine’s experiences. In July, Ukrainian military specialists briefed NATO officials on their USV operations.

ReconCraft, a U.S. company specializing in special operations boats, will manufacture Magura USVs in the United States. Production will occur in Oregon and South Carolina following an agreement made in Washington, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.