The capture of a Ukrainian unmanned boat loaded with FPV drones was described as a major success for Russian forces by retired Navy Captain Vasily Dandykin.

He explained that such vessels are often referred to informally as «mothership boats." Their role is to bring Ukrainian forces closer to the Russian coastline, where drones with limited range can then be launched.

Dandykin emphasized that seizing such equipment was a rare event, even if not the first of its kind. He noted that the craft had apparently been prepared for detonation, but Russian troops managed to secure it intact.

According to the expert, the captured vessel represents a valuable trophy for Russian engineers. By examining its construction, specialists can accelerate the development of domestic counterparts. He underlined that this practice is common in any armed conflict: captured technology is studied, adapted, and tested under combat conditions.

The Ministry of Defense had earlier released footage showing Ukrainian unmanned boats being destroyed in the Black Sea with small arms fire and Lancet loitering munitions.

Commenting on the seized craft’s design, Dandykin said it functioned as a launch platform, capable of releasing 10 to 20 FPV drones at once, each carrying an explosive payload. He recalled that Ukrainian forces had already employed a similar approach by launching drones from trucks inside Russian territory.