Ukraine disables Russian navy ship in daring intel operation

The minesweeper Aleksandr Obukhov was stationed in Baltiysk and was there to begin its combat service after undergoing repairs at a shipyard in St. Petersburg in July.

"Following a successful operation by Ukrainian defense intelligence, the minesweeper of the Russian Federation's Baltic Fleet - Aleksandr Obukhov - was immobilized. The vessel, which was stationed in the city of Baltiysk and intended to commence combat service, suffered severe damage when water entered the engine due to a mysterious hole in the exhaust pipe. Obukhov choked," according to the HUR communiqué.

"Currently, the Russian minesweeper is undergoing extensive repairs, which may pose a significant issue - the damaged M-503 engine is a scarce commodity," the communiqué added.

Aleksandr Obukhov is a Project 12700 anti-mine ship. The Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau designed these minesweepers, which are intended for detecting dangerous underwater objects and clearing areas of threats such as mines.

Although classified as "minesweepers," in addition to the traditional sweep used to cut the mooring line of a sea mine or detonate it on site, they also employ unmanned underwater vehicles and systems to observe situations below the water's surface.

They are notable for having the largest hull made of plastic, including fiberglass, rather than metal. This design is intended to provide them with exceptional durability, reduced detectability by underwater explosives, and most importantly, a virtually unlimited lifespan due to the durability of the material.

The ship damaged by Ukraine's military intelligence was the first of this type of minesweeper, which entered service in 2016. Nine such units have been launched so far —eight remain in service, and more are under construction.

Aleksandr Obukhov is the second ship of the Baltic Fleet to be disabled in the past six months. In April, the torpedo corvette "Serpukhov" was immobilized.