The “Yamal” and “Nikolai Filchenkov” have been sunk in Crimea: what is known about the GUR operation
20 April 10:57
The Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has struck two large Russian landing ships in occupied Crimea. Details were provided by the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
Intelligence officials stated that both ships, which Russia used in the war against Ukraine, have been put out of commission. In addition, Ukrainian intelligence officers destroyed the Russian “Podlot-K1” radar station, estimated to be worth approximately $5 million.
What is known about the GUR strike on Russian ships
According to the Main Intelligence Directorate, the operation in occupied Crimea was carried out by the “Ghosts” special forces unit. On the night of April 18–19, two large landing ships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet—the “Yamal” and the “Nikolai Filchenkov”—were struck.
Both ships were in Sevastopol Bay. According to Ukrainian intelligence, they were put out of commission following the strike. Along with the ships, the Russian “Podlot-K1” radar station was also hit.
Which ships were hit by the GUR
The first target was the Project 775 large landing ship “Yamal.” This 1988-built vessel, 112.5 meters long, can carry up to 500 tons of cargo, including armored vehicles and troops. The estimated value of this ship exceeds $80 million.
The second ship struck was the Project 1171 large landing ship “Nikolai Filchenkov.” This ship was built in 1975 and has a cargo capacity of up to 1,000 tons. It is capable of transporting dozens of units of heavy equipment and a large landing force. Its estimated value is over $70 million.
Why Striking Landing Ships Is Important
Large amphibious ships are a vital part of a navy’s capabilities, as they are used to transport personnel, armored vehicles, ammunition, and cargo. The destruction of such vessels means not only material losses for Russia but also a weakening of its capabilities in the Black Sea and in occupied Crimea.
Particularly telling is the fact that, according to the data cited, as of March 2024, both ships were undergoing repairs, leaving the Russian Federation with only five large landing ships in service. At the start of the full-scale war, there were 14 such ships.
What is known about the “Podlyot-K1” radar station
In addition to the ships, Ukrainian intelligence reported the destruction of the Russian “Podlyot-K1” radar station. Its value is estimated at approximately $5 million.
The destruction of the radar station is significant because such systems are used to detect targets and support air defense operations. The destruction of the radar station in Crimea represents an additional blow to Russia’s military infrastructure on the peninsula.
What is known about the “Yamal” and previous strikes
The ship “Yamal,” as noted, had previously been targeted. It was reported that it was struck on April 18. At that time, the Russian large landing ship “Azov” was also hit. It is also noted that Ukraine struck these ships in 2024 as well.
This indicates a systematic effort by Ukrainian forces to destroy or disable key units of the Russian Black Sea Fleet.
