Black Widow 2: Ukraine's Latest Weapon in River Operations Against Russia.

According to information published by Militarnyi on January 7, 2025, the Ukrainian Defense Forces have begun military trials of the Black Widow 2, a new small riverine unmanned surface vehicle (USV) designed for reconnaissance and offensive operations. Developed by the Braive1 technology cluster, the Black Widow 2 is a cost-effective, versatile, and compact solution tailored to counter Russian military operations in riverine environments, particularly on the Dnipro River.
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Ukraine deploys Black Widow 2 drones to outmaneuver enemies in river operations. (Picture source: Ukrainian TV)

The Black Widow 2 is a lightweight and agile platform, measuring only 1 meter in length and weighing 8 kg. It boasts a maximum speed of 40 km/h and an operational range of up to 10 km. The USV is powered by a rechargeable onboard battery that provides several hours of operational endurance. When required, the boat can switch to a standby mode, enabling it to lie in wait for targets for several days.

Equipped with a camera mounted on a rotating gimbal, the Black Widow 2 offers real-time reconnaissance capabilities. The camera supports both day and night operations, providing critical situational awareness for its operators. The USV can carry a 3 kg payload, sufficient for a range of tasks, including delivering explosive charges to destroy small enemy boats or equipment.

The Black Widow 2 can be remotely piloted with precision, making its operation straightforward yet impactful. Beyond reconnaissance and intelligence missions, the USV can serve as a highly effective kamikaze platform, delivering its explosive payload to neutralize targets such as Russian vessels operating in contested river zones.

The project originated in 2023 at the request of Ukrainian military commanders seeking solutions to counter Russian troop rotations on the Dnipro River’s islands. Currently, two brigades of the Ukrainian Armed Forces are testing the drone in operational scenarios.

The prototype of the Black Widow 2 was first unveiled at the Defence Tech Valley investment summit in October 2024. During the event, the developers revealed plans to expand the platform's capabilities. In addition to the kamikaze version, work is underway on a variant designed for mine-clearing operations targeting moored mines. Furthermore, a larger version of the riverine USV is also in development.

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Rivers in Ukraine have emerged as both strategic assets and critical challenges in the ongoing conflict, shaping the military dynamics on both sides. These waterways, particularly the Dnieper River, act as natural barriers and logistical corridors, influencing operations at tactical and strategic levels.

One of the most significant issues revolves around the control and disruption of river crossings. Bridges over rivers like the Dnieper and Seym are pivotal for moving troops, equipment, and supplies. The deliberate destruction of these bridges, such as the Ukrainian strikes in the Kursk region, has effectively disrupted Russian supply chains and complicated logistics. Conversely, Russian forces have targeted river crossings to stall Ukrainian advances, exemplified by the destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, which led to widespread flooding. This flooding not only altered the terrain but created significant operational and humanitarian challenges, affecting both military mobility and civilian populations.

Amphibious operations and river crossings have posed additional difficulties. Ukrainian forces have undertaken bold efforts to secure footholds on the eastern banks of rivers like the Dnieper, often operating in hostile and exposed environments. These operations demand high levels of coordination, specialized equipment, and resilience against artillery fire and entrenched defenses on opposing riverbanks.