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Ukraine Tests Modernized Magura V7.2 Naval Drone During NATO Trials in Portugal
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Ukraine has begun trials of a modernized version of its Magura V7 unmanned surface vessel (USV) at maritime ranges in Portugal, defense outlet Militarnyi reported on September 23. The tests are taking place during NATO’s Dynamic Messenger/REPMUS 2025 exercise, which focuses on integrating unmanned maritime platforms into allied fleet operations.
The updated Magura V7.2 features a reinforced hull with a revised hydrodynamic profile to improve efficiency and stability in high sea states. Engineers have shifted the missile launchers from the stern to a mid-deck position and modified the exhaust layout as part of the structural redesign.
According to Militarnyi, the vessel also incorporates a new navigation package combining satellite and inertial guidance, making it less vulnerable to jamming.
Other upgrades include extended operational range through optimized propulsion, an expanded payload capacity capable of carrying larger explosive charges, and encrypted multi-channel communications designed to resist electronic warfare. The control system has been upgraded to allow improved remote handling and semi-autonomous mission execution.
Portugal’s Atlantic test areas near Tróia and Sesimbra provide varied sea conditions, enabling NATO-standard evaluation of endurance, strike accuracy, and integration with other unmanned assets. Rear Adm. Thomas Wall of NATO Submarines described the wider campaign as “a live exercise to test, exercise and experiment the use of all unmanned systems able to support maritime operations.”
Ukraine’s Magura drones have already seen combat use in the Black Sea. On May 2, Ukraine Intelligence Directorate Chief Kyrylo Budanov confirmed that Magura-7 units armed with AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles were used to down two Russian Su-30 fighters, calling the event “a historic moment.”
Earlier, it was reported that Ukraine’s intelligence service publicly unveiled the Magura sea drone family, stating that Group 13 had destroyed 15 Russian targets—including aircraft and ships—using these platforms.
