Ukraine’s Missile and Drone Advancements Force Russian Fleet to Withdraw, Says Ukrainian Navy Commander

Ukraine has established dominance in the Black Sea, preventing Russian forces from approaching its shores and ensuring civilian shipping routes, according to Vice Admiral Oleksii Neizhpapa, commander of the Ukrainian Navy.

Speaking to Krym.Realii on April 8, he acknowledged that while threats remain, Ukraine has significantly shifted the balance in its favor.

“We do not allow the enemy near our shores and secure civilian navigation. However, the enemy still has the capability to strike civilian infrastructure and vessels in ports or at sea, so the danger persists,” Neizhpapa said.

Before Russia’s full-scale invasion, Ukrainian forces had to defend their coastline directly. Now, the battlefield has shifted closer to Russian-held territories.

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“At the beginning of the war, we faced the enemy near our own shores. Now, we engage them near theirs. That is the key difference after three years of war,” he explained.

Neizhpapa attributed Ukraine’s success to Russian overconfidence, which initially led Moscow to underestimate Ukraine’s naval capabilities.

“Some believed Ukraine had no fleet and was therefore not a threat. That was their first mistake, and they now realize how wrong they were. They did not expect us to develop coastal missile forces or deploy maritime attack drones,” he noted. “Now, instead of operating freely, they hide in Novorossiysk.”

Ukraine’s achievements at sea have also been driven by advances in missile technology and unmanned systems.

“In the early days, we had to work with the limited resources available. But the development of the Neptune  missile program, along with innovative solutions from the Security Service of Ukraine, military intelligence, and naval specialists, has played a major role,” Neizhpapa said. “Our unmanned maritime systems have made a significant impact, and we continue to enhance these technologies while the enemy focuses on countering them.”

Despite these advancements, Neizhpapa emphasized that the maritime war remains dynamic, with both sides adapting to new challenges.

Previously, it was reported that Ukraine’s sea drones inspire US military as triton AUSV charts new course.