Russia Strips FSB Patrol Boats of Coast Guard Markings and Adds Anti-Drone Armor in the Baltic

Russia has begun modifying patrol boats operated by the FSB Border Guard’s Coast Guard for missions in the Baltic Sea, giving at least one Project 12200 Sobol vessel dark camouflage, according to images published by OSINT researcher Spectre Crouton on October 11.

The vessel had previously carried a dark-blue hull, white superstructure, Coast Guard identification stripes, and a visible hull number. In the newer images, those markings are gone, and the entire boat has been repainted in a dark geometric camouflage pattern and fitted with additional protection against drones.

Metal grilles have been installed above the bridge and superstructure, apparently intended to provide protection against FPV drones and munitions dropped from above, according to Militarnyi.

Similar improvised anti-drone structures have become increasingly common on military vehicles and ships as low-cost UAVs become a growing threat to exposed equipment.

Additional equipment is also visible toward the stern, including an inflatable boat, suggesting the vessel may be receiving a broader package of modifications for more demanding operational tasks in the Baltic.

Project 12200 Sobol patrol boats were developed by the Almaz Central Marine Design Bureau in St. Petersburg in the early 2000s. Their original role centers on border protection, coastal patrols, and anti-smuggling missions rather than frontline naval combat.

The Sobol displaces about 57.5 tons, measures roughly 30.3 meters in length and 5.8 meters in beam, and can reach speeds of approximately 47 to 50 knots. The vessel is operated by a crew of six, giving it a relatively small footprint and high speed for coastal interception and patrol work.

Earlier, Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov awarded the commander of the Baltic Fleet corvette Soobrazitelny after the Russian warship fired signal flares toward a Danish military helicopter in international waters near Gedser, Denmark.

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