Russian forces have begun deploying anchored river mines in the Dnipro River using an uncrewed surface vessel, according to video footage analyzed by Ukrainian defense outlet Militarnyi and published January 13.
The footage, originally released by Russian propaganda channels, shows an uncrewed surface drone placing two anchored river mines into the water before releasing them remotely.
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The system used for the operation is identified as the Sirius-82, a previously unseen uncrewed surface craft, Militarnyi noted. Based on the video, the drone carries two river mines mounted on its deck, which are dropped into the river after the onboard locking mechanisms are disengaged.
The Sirius-82 appears to be a compact, lightweight surface vessel powered by battery packs. Control is carried out via a joystick similar to those used for FPV drones, while video transmission relies on an analog communications system. Other technical characteristics of the platform have not been disclosed.
The mines shown in the footage are anchored river mines (YARM)—a Soviet-era explosive device designed to target landing craft and riverine vessels in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
According to Militarnyi, a YARM mine consists of an explosive charge housed in a metal casing, a contact detonator fitted with a cross-shaped trigger, and an anchoring mechanism that holds the mine at a preset depth. After deployment, a sugar-based safety fuse gradually dissolves in the water, arming the mine once the delay period expires.
Russian boat full of infantry hits an anti-landing mine "YaRM" which was installed by drone operators of the 123rd TD Brigade. Somewhere in the Dnipro river, Kherson region. https://t.co/l1x61LjZQO pic.twitter.com/BPVQx387iw
— Special Kherson Cat 🐈🇺🇦 (@bayraktar_1love) May 5, 2024
Detonation occurs when a vessel makes contact with the trigger mechanism. Due to their design, YARM mines are not meant to be disarmed; neutralization typically requires controlled detonation in place or specialized minesweeping operations under strict safety protocols.
The total weight of a YARM mine is approximately 13 kilograms, including about 3 kilograms of TNT.
Earlier, reports emerged that Russian military commanders were investigating suspected deliberate sabotage by their own personnel after a series of unexplained equipment failures crippled river boats operating in the Kherson region.
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