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Ukraine Unveils “Toloka” Underwater Drone: A Game-Changer for Naval Warfare

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Ivan_khomenko
Ivan Khomenko
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Ukraine Unveils “Toloka” Underwater Drone: A Game-Changer for Naval Warfare
A close-up of Ukraine’s “Toloka” underwater drone, showcasing its propulsion system and sleek design. (Source: Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Telegram)

On February 24, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy showcased cutting-edge defense technologies developed domestically during a meeting with leaders from partner states in Kyiv. This significant event was part of a high-level summit commemorating the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Among the technologies displayed were reconnaissance UAVs, FPV drones with fiber-optic guidance, robotic ground platforms, interceptor drones, electronic warfare (EW) and electronic reconnaissance (ER) systems, communication platforms, river drones, and missile-equipped drones.

However, special attention was given to the “Toloka” underwater drone series, designed to enhance Ukraine’s capabilities in maritime operations.

According to Defense Express, the “Toloka” family includes three variants:

  • TLK-150: 2.5-meter hull, range up to 100 km, electric propulsion, payload capacity of 20-50 kg.

  • TLK-400: 4-6-meter hull, range up to 1,200 km, payload capacity up to 500 kg.

  • TLK-1000: 4-12-meter hull, range up to 2,000 km, payload capacity up to 5,000 kg.

    Classification of “Toloka” underwater drones, based on open-source data.
    Classification of “Toloka” underwater drones, based on open-source data.

According to available specifications, the TLK-150 is significantly smaller than surface suicide drones, with only its antenna and cameras visible above water. This design makes detection by radar or visual means more challenging.

Comparative infographic detailing the specifications of the TLK-150 “Toloka” maritime drone. (Source: H I Sutton)
Comparative infographic detailing the specifications of the TLK-150 “Toloka” maritime drone. (Source: H I Sutton)

These underwater drones are designed to operate below the waterline, making them less vulnerable to detection and interception. Their capability to target vessels below the waterline enhances the effectiveness of strikes against warships, including those carrying Kalibr cruise missiles.

The meeting was attended by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda, Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs, Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Leaders from Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden were also present, along with former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Earlier, the Ukrainian Navy showcased a new fleet of unmanned maritime vessels, or “drone carriers,” equipped with strike FPV drones. A video released on December 7, 2024, demonstrated their use in an attack on Russian-controlled gas platforms in the Black Sea, highlighting enhanced precision strike capabilities.

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