**Ukraine Unveils New Naval Drone Used to Shoot Down Two Russian Su-30 Jets**
On May 15, 2025, Ukrainian news outlet Militarnyi reported that Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) presented the specifications of its new-generation Magura v7 naval drone. The drone was used earlier in May to shoot down two Russian Su-30 fighters.
**A New Era of Drone Warfare**
Drone warfare innovations have become a defining feature of the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war. Unmanned vehicles operating in the air, on land, and at sea now play a central role, with both sides rapidly advancing their technologies. Ukrainian maritime drones have played a significant role in forcing most of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet to withdraw from the northwestern Black Sea and from positions near occupied Crimea.
**The Magura v7: A Powerful Successor**
The Magura v7, developed by Uforce, is an expanded and upgraded successor to the Magura v5. The new version is double the size, measuring 7.2 meters and weighing 3,400 kg. This increase in mass and hull size allows it to operate effectively in seas with up to 3-point wave conditions, whereas the previous version was limited to 2-point conditions.
**Enhanced Range and Autonomy**
The drone’s diesel engine, rated at 270 horsepower, works in tandem with expanded 1,200-liter fuel tanks to boost its operational range from 450 to 800 nautical miles—approximately 1,500 kilometers. The Magura v7 can conduct missions autonomously for 48 hours, or up to 7 days when paired with a generator.
**Anti-Air Missile Configuration and Alternatives**
The drone’s air-defense variant was outfitted with two aviation pylons used as fixed guides for the AIM-9M Sidewinder air-to-air missiles. Missile targeting is performed by rotating the drone body for horizontal aiming, while the missile’s infrared seeker handles vertical tracking within a 60–67° field of view.
**Multi-Role Design Expands Mission Profile**
In addition to combat use, the Magura v7 is intended for a variety of missions, including logistics, patrolling, and maritime acoustic monitoring. Developers claim it can be equipped for firefighting and cargo transport. Like its predecessor, it relies on a multichannel satellite communication system that maintains operational integrity in the presence of enemy electronic warfare systems.
**A Commander’s Perspective**
A commander from HUR’s Group 13, operating these drones, stated during the event that in future configurations, the drone will also be fitted with Soviet-made R-73 air-to-air missiles as an alternative to American systems.
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