Under the cover of scientific development, Russia has created a line of specialized underwater drones capable of damaging underwater infrastructure. The development is being carried out by the Rubin Design Bureau, Defence Express has reported.
Analysts note that the issue of destroying underwater cables in the Baltic Sea remains relevant for the Russian military. In particular, a communications cable between Finland and Estonia has recently been damaged again.
"Civilian" drones with a military purpose
Systems capable of damaging infrastructure include Argus-D, Argus-I, and Octavia. Officially, these platforms are presented as civilian and scientific.
However, as OSINT analyst H. I. Sutton points out, these underwater drones may have a secondary, combat role, including:
- damaging underwater cables;
- destroying pipelines;
- laying mines on the seabed.
"Octavia" as an underwater drone base
The Octavia system is a stationary underwater docking station that, once deployed, anchors itself or settles on the seabed. It features two docking ports for other underwater unmanned vehicles, allowing for their storage, recharging, data collection, and transmission of new commands.
Argus-I and Argus-D: reconnaissance and delivery
Argus-I is a reconnaissance drone equipped with various sensors (the letter “I” stands for “Inspector”). Officially, it is intended for inspecting pipelines for leaks and is fitted with two retractable sensor masts.
It operates in tandem with the larger Argus-D (“Delivery”) vehicle, designed to transport and place payloads on the seabed. Its payload capacity is estimated to be up to 300 kg, with a total mass of approximately 5.5 tons.
Officially, the payload is described as scientific equipment with sensors for recording acoustic ocean characteristics, as well as seismic and biological activity. At the same time, the experts note that Argus-D is ideally suited for deploying naval mines or explosive devices on cables or pipelines, particularly in the Baltic Sea.
The analysts conclude that these tools may be used by Russia in the event of a war with the Baltic States.
