Ukrainian naval forces have resumed operations with the Bayraktar drones

The Ukrainian Navy has recently resumed the use of Turkish-made Bayraktar drones in combat operations, a move that has significantly impacted the ongoing conflict. According to Crimean Wind, the reactivation of these drones is attributed to the destruction of Russia's air defense systems in Crimea.

The Bayraktar drones, manufactured by the Turkish company Baykar, have shown a new level of effectiveness. They have successfully engaged Russian marine drones and penetrated their operational rear. A notable instance of their use occurred on September 6, 2023, when Ukrainian forces employed these drones equipped with MAM-L bombs to destroy a Russian landing boat attempting to bring marine infantry to the Tendra Spit.

MAM-L aircraft bombs, produced by the Turkish company Roketsan, are guided by a semi-active laser and weigh 22 kg, with a range of 15 km. Their high precision and small size make them ideal for the missions at hand.

The return of Bayraktar drones to combat operations has been facilitated by the destruction of dozens of radar stations on the Crimean peninsula. Since 2022, these drones had barely been used.

Viktor Bosniak, a military observer for Dumskaya, has noted the effective use of Bayraktar drones against Russian marine drones and their ability to penetrate their operational rear. He expressed his satisfaction with their reactivation, stating, "It's great that they've been reactivated."

A report by Dumskaya on September 6 reported that Bayraktar drones destroyed a Russian landing craft. Some observers and bloggers claim that these drones had previously operated in the area but were used solely for reconnaissance purposes from a distance.

However, the resurgence of Bayraktar drones in combat operations marks a significant shift in the conflict, and their impact on the aggressor country's forces continues to unfold.