Ukrainian intel unit hits Russian naval and air targets in Crimea
Illustrative photo: explosion (Getty Images)
A special unit of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, known as the Ghosts, carried out another operation in temporarily occupied Crimea, striking Russian military targets, according to Ukraine’s intelligence (HUR).
HUR operations in Crimea
The unit continues systematic efforts to hit Russian military infrastructure in occupied Crimea.
During one of the operations conducted in April 2026, targets linked to the enemy’s naval, landing, and aviation components were attacked.
Targets hit
As a result of the operation, several assets were disabled, including:
- three Project 05060 landing assault boats;
- a support vessel used by Russian forces;
- a hangar used to store boats of that class;
- a Be-12 Chayka anti-submarine amphibious aircraft.
Incident during the operation
A separate incident is noted, involving an attempt by Russian forces to counter the operation
During the mission, the unit evaded a man-portable air defense system (MANPADS), after which the operation continued as planned.
Significance of the operation
According to the Ukrainian side, such actions are aimed at gradually weakening Russia’s military capabilities in the region, including its naval infrastructure and aviation assets.
Experts link the decline in Russia’s oil exports to damage and disruptions at key logistics facilities in the Baltic direction.
Ukraine’s Defense Forces also carried out a series of strikes on Russian targets in temporarily occupied territories on May 3 and overnight into May 4.
