Russian Frigate 'Admiral Essen' Crippled in SBU Strike, Losing Kalibr Missile Capability.

Strike on the Frigate 'Admiral Essen'

According to Novyny.live: On March 2, the Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) targeted the Russian frigate 'Admiral Essen' in the port of Novorossiysk, inflicting critical damage. The attack was a direct response to the vessel's previous use of cruise missiles against Ukrainian territory. The Kalibr missile system, a key component of Russia's long-range strike capability, has been rendered inoperable, significantly degrading the ship's combat role.

The 'Admiral Essen' is a carrier of eight Kalibr cruise missiles, which it had actively deployed against Ukraine. A fire on its deck raged for approximately 18 hours following the strike, underscoring the severity of the damage. The SBU confirmed the frigate sustained critical damage that 'substantially limits its ability to use Kalibr cruise missiles,' and that it is 'currently incapable of launching strikes on Ukrainian territory.'

SBU Expands Its Operational Reach

Beyond the naval strike, the SBU has demonstrated a dramatically extended range for its operations deep inside Russia. In a separate operation, SBU drones struck the Ukhta oil refinery, located some 1,750 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Another target was hit in Tatarstan, over 1,200 kilometers away. These long-distance strikes mark a strategic shift, challenging Russia's perceived defensive security at home and potentially affecting military logistics.

The disabling of the 'Admiral Essen' and the long-range drone attacks represent a significant escalation in Ukraine's defensive campaign. Neutralizing a platform responsible for missile barrages against civilian infrastructure directly impacts Russia's capacity to wage war from a distance. This expansion of Ukraine's operational geography introduces new tactical pressures that could alter the dynamics of the ongoing conflict.