UK develops maritime drones for Ukraine
The United Kingdom is developing new Wasp and Snapper maritime unmanned systems to enhance Ukraine's capabilities in the Black Sea.
Here's What We Know
Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed the completion of short-term development of several weapons projects, including Wasp and Snapper. Defence Procurement Minister Maria Eagle noted that these drones were designed specifically for Ukraine and are currently undergoing final testing.
The projects are part of a strategy to develop Ukraine's unmanned fleet. Earlier, the United Kingdom announced the creation of a COOKSON maritime stealthy heavy weapon carrier drone designed for combat operations. It will have an autonomy of up to 72 hours, a range of up to 1300 km, the ability to attack targets even in case of signal loss, and the ability to carry several combat units.
Sea Baby maritime drones. Illustration: Ukraine's Security Service
The Ministry of Defence has also defined the characteristics of the COOKSON system: speed over 40 knots even in difficult weather conditions; a range of 30-100 km for weapons; air defence capability and integration of additional weapons.
The production of the first drones is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025, and the testing of weapons is expected to take place in late 2025 or early 2026.
Source: Naval technology