Ukrainian drones take down Russian Mi‑8 helicopters near Crimea

The Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) reported the destruction of two Russian Mi-8 helicopters using Magura V5 assault marine drones. The operation took place on December 31 near Crimea. "According to updated data, as a result of the successful operation by Ukrainian military intelligence in the Black Sea near the temporarily occupied Crimea, the special unit 'Group 13' destroyed two Russian Mi-8 helicopters on December 31 using rocket missiles installed on Magura V5 marine drones," HUR conveyed.

"Preliminary reports indicate that the crews of these hostile helicopters were also eliminated. Another Russian helicopter was hit by a missile and managed to land, though it was effectively shot down," reported the Ukrainian intelligence. Earlier, HUR published footage from a drone camera showing an attack on a Russian helicopter that fell into the Black Sea.

The Magura V5 strike marine drones are a Ukrainian production. Since early 2024, the special unit "Group 13" has destroyed several Russian units with their help, including the missile ship Ivanovets and the large landing ship Caesar Kunikov.