Ukraine’s Sea Drone MV11: A New Naval Warfare Innovation

Ukraine has introduced a cutting-edge sea drone, the MV11, which can deploy other uncrewed vehicles from open water. Known as the world’s first ‘drone aircraft carrier,’ this innovation is by Ukrainian defense start-up UFORCE. The debut took place during a parade of drones in Kyiv, coinciding with Ukraine’s independence day celebrations.

According to Oleh Rohynskyi, the CEO of UFORCE, the MV11 is expected to play a crucial role in future missions, aiding in defensive efforts against adversaries. Despite lacking large warships, Ukraine’s military and intelligence agencies have effectively used missiles and drones to target Russian assets in the Black Sea.

Sea drones often serve as kamikaze weapons, providing dramatic footage of collisions with Russian ships. They are also deployed for reconnaissance missions, traveling low in the water, making detection difficult for radar systems.

Russia has responded to Ukraine’s drone success by investing in its own fleet of Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), with Estonian intelligence noting the development of attack-focused USV units within Russia’s naval forces.

UFORCE is known for its Magura series of sea drones used by Kyiv’s military intelligence to target Russian ships. Ukraine’s domestic security agency prefers the SeaBaby design of USVs.

During independence day celebrations, nine Ukrainian USVs showcased their capabilities on the Dnieper River. Notably, a Magura USV successfully shot down a Russian Su-30 fighter jet in May 2025, marking a first in unmanned naval platform operations.

The Magura MV11 Marine Drone: Features and Capabilities

The Magura MV11 represents the latest advancement in the Magura drone family. It boasts upgrades such as machine guns and surface-to-air missiles. Noted for its size, the MV11 is more than a large maritime drone; it’s a versatile carrier capable of launching various unmanned systems far from shore.

With a week-long sea endurance, the MV11 can transport up to 2,200 kilograms of equipment, including sensors, fuel, missiles, and drones. It accommodates up to 18 Sting interceptor drones with explosive warheads, navigated via its fixed camera, as reported by The War Zone.

Impact and Strategic Importance of the Magura MV11

While the MV11 may not drastically change Ukraine’s current drone operations against Russian targets, it’s a strategic addition to their Black Sea forces. According to U.K.-based drone expert Steve Wright, its prolonged presence in mission areas allows for deterrent operations, limiting enemy access.

The technology behind MV11 is already established, simplifying its integration into the platform. NATO has expressed interest in Ukraine’s naval drone tactics, actively learning from their deployments in the Black Sea.

U.S.-based ReconCraft plans to manufacture Magura USVs in the U.S., with operations in Oregon and South Carolina, following a memorandum of understanding signed in Washington in July.