The Digester

Ukraine confirms damage to two Russian frigates at Novorossiysk

Mar 6th 2026

Ukraine says two Black Sea Fleet frigates, Admiral Essen and Admiral Makarov, were damaged in a strike on the Novorossiysk naval base on 2 March 2026 and that assessments of the damage are continuing.

  • Ukraine's General Staff confirmed damage to the Admiral Essen and Admiral Makarov frigates after a strike on Novorossiysk on 2 March 2026.
  • The extent of damage is still being assessed and analysis is ongoing to determine possible damage to other vessels.
  • Ukraine said systematic strikes on enemy military infrastructure will continue until Russia ends its armed aggression.
  • OSINT analysts had earlier reported satellite evidence suggesting the Admiral Essen was likely hit during a drone attack on the night of 1-2 March.
  • Russian sources say the Admiral Essen has been used to launch Kalibr cruise missiles at targets in Ukraine.