Russia covered its submarines with anti-drone cages to protect against Ukraine's deep strikes, Western intel says

Russia has equipped submarines at its Novorossiysk naval base in the Black Sea with anti-drone cage systems, Western intelligence says, as a protective response to Ukrainian deep-strike capabilities. Britain’s Ministry of Defence said Friday that analysis of satellite imagery dated between June 6 and 9 showed counter-drone cages covering the conning towers of three Kilo-class submarines at Novorossiysk. Britain assessed it is “almost certain” a fourth submarine at the base has received similar equipment, with images showing at least two vessels outfitted with the cages. The UK framed the move as a preventive measure amid Ukraine’s increasing ability to strike beyond the front line using drones. Russia’s defence ministry and the U.S. embassy did not immediately comment. The base has grown in importance after earlier Ukrainian strikes forced Russian assets to shift from Sevastopol, and Ukraine has repeatedly attacked Novorossiysk with drones, including exploding unmanned boats.