Ukraine launched the newest Katran VENOM marine drone. The idea of creating such a technology was first voiced by Nikola Tesla back in 1898, when he presented his invention — a boat that could be controlled at a distance. The inventor believed that such technology could fundamentally change the course of wars, informs Forbes.
“War will cease to be possible when to-morrow the whole world learns that the weakest of nations will be able at once to provide herself with weapons which will render her coasts safe and her ports impregnable to the attacks of the combined armadas of the world. Battleships will cease to be built, and the mightiest battleships and the most powerful artillery afloat will be of no further use.” Tesla said.
Although the development of this technology took longer than the inventor anticipated, Ukraine has taken a step towards implementing his idea by launching a new drone equipped with torpedo weapons into the Black Sea. Previously, Ukraine had already successfully used surface unmanned systems (USV) in a confrontation with the Russian fleet. In many cases, these devices hit enemy ships by ramming and then exploding.
The combination of Ukrainian surface drones, aerial drones and anti-ship missiles caused significant damage to the Russian fleet, which, in turn, enabled Ukraine to continue exporting grain. Today, Ukraine has at least fifteen types of USVs at its disposal, from modified civilian vessels to high-tech models such as the Sea Baby, which was used during the attack on the Kerch bridge.
In addition to strike functions, drones have received new types of weapons: unguided missiles for striking ground objects, surface-to-air missiles, as well as FPV drones, which are used to attack coastal positions.
The new Katran marine drone has significantly expanded characteristics. It is capable of both strike and reconnaissance missions, has a range of over 1,000 km and can reach speeds of up to 130 km/h. The device is equipped with secure satellite communication, can operate in radio silence conditions and has electronic warfare equipment on board.
