12 August 2026

Ukrainian Defense Forces struck the Russian naval base in Novorossiysk, damaging several warships and other vessels.

The Exilenova+ community reported the damage following an analysis of satellite imagery conducted jointly with the CyberBoroshno OSINT community.

The Project 11356R frigate Admiral Makarov, one of the Black Sea Fleet’s key Kalibr cruise missile carriers, was damaged in the attack. Analysts identified a strike near the eight-cell vertical launch system, as well as structural damage in the aft superstructure area housing radar systems.

The Project 11356R frigate Admiral Essen, which belongs to the same class, was also damaged. Analysts identified structural damage in the area where its Kalibr missile launchers are located.

A Project 266M minesweeper, designed to search for and destroy naval mines in coastal and ocean waters using specialized minesweeping gear and sonar, was also among the damaged vessels.

Damaged warships in the port of Novorossiysk. Aug. 12, 2026. Source: Exilenova+

The attack also damaged the Project 20360 OS research vessel Viktor Cherokov, which Russia uses to test weapons, conduct torpedo launches and support the fleet’s submarine operations.

Damage was also identified on the unidentified Project 22160 patrol ship Vasily Bykov, designed to protect territorial waters and conduct patrol and escort missions.

The aft section of the Project 864 medium reconnaissance ship Priazovye, equipped with electronic intelligence and radar surveillance systems, was also likely damaged.

Damaged oil tanker in the port of Novorossiysk. August 12, 2026. Source: Exilenova+

In addition to the warships, an unidentified dry cargo vessel moored in the harbor was also damaged.

During the attack on the oil terminal, an Aframax-class oil tanker was also damaged. Signs of fire, firefighting foam and an oil spill were observed in the water.

Fires in Novorossiysk on the NASA FIRMS map following the Ukrainian attack. Aug. 12, 2026. Source: Exilenova+

The Ukrainian Defense Forces struck the Russian naval base and port in Novorossiysk overnight on August 12 with Neptune missiles, Palianytsia missile-drones and unmanned surface vessels.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukrainian forces hit designated targets, including air defense positions, berths and port infrastructure.

Two Frigates, Minesweeper, Reconnaissance and Patrol Ships Damaged at Russian Naval Base in Novorossiysk — Exilenova+