Russia resurfaces old Be‑12 Chaika aircraft for Crimea water patrols amid Ukrainian drone threats

The Be-12 Chaikas (NATO code: Mail) have reappeared near the Crimean Peninsula, as reported by Defence Blog. They are being used by the Russians to patrol the sea. This resurgence is likely related to intensified attacks by Ukrainians against the Black Sea Fleet using kamikaze-style underwater drones. According to the Defence Blog, the Be-12's moderate speed, capacity for long flights, and specialized bomb bay make it suitable for missions to locate and attack suspected unmanned boats.

Interestingly, the Be-12s were decommissioned in 1992 due to their condition. Nonetheless, in October, the Ukrainian service Defence Express stated that the Russian military could technically still fly them. It added that due to the aircraft's condition, Russian pilots avoid water take-offs and only launch the Be-12s from terrestrial airports.

The exact number of Be-12s that are in serviceable condition and being used by the Russians for patrols remains unknown. Defence Express, citing data from the "The Military Balance 2023" report, mentioned six aircraft. Meanwhile, it reminded us that a total of 143 Be-12s were produced. Consequently, it's unrealistic to expect a sudden increase in water patrolling capabilities around the Crimean Peninsula by the Russians. Especially given that the B-12 are older machines, introduced in the 1960s.

As previously reported, the Be-12 Chaikas were developed by the Beriev Design Bureau to replace the problematic Be-10 series from the Cold War era. The Be-12 was conceived as an amphibious aircraft, principally designed for water and coastline patrols and submarine destruction. However, it also proved useful in sea rescue missions and geological research later on.

This twin-engine, propeller-driven aircraft measures just over 98 feet long, about 30 feet tall, and has a wingspan of roughly 98 feet. The Be-12 Chaika weighs around 54,895 lbs when empty and can carry a payload of between 3,307 lbs and 6,614 lbs. It can fly at a maximum speed of 360 mph, and it has a range of 2237 miles.

The design notably includes distinctly upturned gull-type wings, which aid the machine in water take-offs. Besides water take-off and landing, the Be-12 can also take off and land at conventional airports, increasing its utility in various contexts. At present, Russian pilots are reported to be opting for this latter mode.