Ukrainian Drones Knock Out Power in Crimea: 19 Substations Hit in 'Switch Off' Operation.

Operation 'Crimean Switch Off'

According to Espreso.tv: In 2023, Ukrainian forces executed a major drone strike targeting the energy grid in occupied Crimea and other temporarily held territories. Commander Robert Brovdi of the Ukrainian Armed Forces' Unmanned Systems Forces reported that 19 electrical substations and power hubs were successfully hit during the operation, code-named 'Crimean Switch Off.' The strikes struck locations including Yalta, Kerch, Staryi Krym, Sudak, Koktebel, Luchyste, Morske, Pryvitne, and Lenino.

The targeted substations operated at voltage classes of 110, 150, and 220 kV. Several units from the Unmanned Systems Forces carried out the mission:

• 414th Separate Brigade 'Madar's Birds'
• 412th Brigade Nemesis
• 427th Brigade 'Rarog'
• 20th Brigade 'K-2'
• 1st Separate Center of the SBS

It is important to note that the substations were also located in the Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Donetsk, and Luhansk regions.

“The occupiers' power socket in Crimea will remain under constant pressure until the peninsula is completely freed from the burden of colonization.”

Robert Brovdi

For context, on July 20, 2023, the Unmanned Systems Forces targeted seven vessels from Russia's 'shadow fleet' in the Black Sea, showcasing Ukraine's ongoing efforts to counter aggression across multiple domains.

Ukrainian Military Effectiveness

This operation highlights the growing capability of Ukraine's military to deploy drone technology against critical infrastructure in occupied areas. The success of 'Crimean Switch Off' could significantly affect the region's energy supply, underscoring Ukraine's sustained push to reclaim control over its territory. Furthermore, Ukrainian activity in the Black Sea, including actions against Russia's shadow fleet, reflects a comprehensive military strategy that integrates both ground and maritime operations.