Ukrainian Forces Destroy Rare Russian Smerch-2 Naval Mortar Repurposed for Land Combat, Video

Ukrainian forces have destroyed a Russian Smerch-2 (RBU-6000) naval mortar in the Lyman sector using drones. The operation was carried out by the Ukrainian 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, which detected and eliminated the modified Russian weapon concealed in a forested area.

According to Operational-Strategic Grouping of Troops Khortytsia , Ukrainian drones tracked and struck the Russian naval mortar, which had been mounted on a Ural truck for land-based operations. The attack was conducted using large night-time UAVs, rendering the weapon inoperative.

What is the Smerch-2 (RBU-6000)

The RBU-6000 Smerch-2 is a Soviet-era reactive naval mortar, developed in the 1960s for the Soviet Navy. It was originally designed as an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) system, used to neutralize submarines, attacking torpedoes, and underwater sabotage threats. The weapon system was installed on a wide range of Soviet and later Russian warships, including destroyers, frigates, and corvettes.

Unlike conventional depth charges, the Smerch-2 fires rocket-assisted depth charges (RGB-60 or 90R munitions) in a preset pattern, creating a barrier of explosive charges in a designated area. This increases its effectiveness against moving underwater targets. The system can also be used in salvo mode, launching multiple projectiles in quick succession.

Key specifications:

• Caliber: 213 mm

• Number of barrels: 12 (radially arranged)

• Firing range: Up to 5.2 km

• Projectile weight: Approx. 113 kg

• Rate of fire: 2.4 rounds per minute

• Warhead type: Contact and proximity-fused depth charges

• Guidance system: Integrated with shipborne sonar and fire control systems

How the Smerch-2 works

The Smerch-2 system consists of a launcher with 12 radially arranged barrels, a fire control system that calculates targeting angles based on sonar data, automated reloading mechanisms for quick salvo launches, and an ammunition storage compartment located below deck on naval vessels.

When an underwater threat is detected, the ship’s sonar system transmits target data to the fire control system, which calculates the optimal firing solution. The rockets are then launched into the designated area, rapidly descending and detonating at preset depths to disable enemy submarines or torpedoes.

Earlier, Ukrainian forces repelled a Russian counterattack near Kotlyne in Donetsk region, destroying multiple armored vehicles, including a Russian-captured American M113 APC. The attack, carried out under drone surveillance, targeted Russian units advancing on a mined road, leading to heavy losses.