Russian Surface Drone (USV) Base, Crimea

Flag Russia At least 21 special covered boast hangars have been dug into the southern shore of Lake Donuzlav in Crimea. These defended positions are likely for Russian surface drone (USV – uncrewed surface vessel) use. Information has now been made public from Ukrainian CyberBoroshno (КіберБорошно) OSINT sources.

Russian Surface Drone (USV) Base, Crimea Credit CyberBoroshno

This matches an observed increase in Russian Navy (and possibly other armed forces) use of USVs to attack the Odesa region. Some attacks have been launched from Chornomorskoe, further north on Crimea, but a base on Lake Donuzlav has long been suspected.

The base is dispersed in two areas. Construction of the first set of 8 hides, at Donuzlav Air Base in the vicinity of 45.3424°, 33.0532°, started in February 2026. The second set of 8, between Donuzlav Air Base and the historic naval base at Novoozernoe (confusingly called ‘Southern Naval Base’) in the vicinity of 45.3626°, 33.0608°, were started just after. Digging the inlets used mechanical diggers from the shore side. Both sets of hides were largely complete by the end of the second week of March, but the number have been increased over the months to 13 at the second site.

The design of both sets is similar. Around half of the hides appear covered at any point in time. Some USVs and related equipment may be stored in revetments at Donuzlav Air Base and the surrounding area.

Russian Surface Drone (USV) Base, Crimea

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