Ukrainian Navy Destroys Russian Ka-27 Helicopter Near Syvash Platform
Ukrainian naval and special operations forces destroyed a Russian Ka-27 helicopter attempting to land on a Russian-occupied drilling platform in the Black Sea on the night of March 4-5, 2026. The Syvash drilling platform, located at the Holitsynske gas field, had been utilized by Russian forces for surveillance, communications, and the deployment of electronic warfare systems.
Strategic Importance of the Syvash Platform
According to the Ukrainian Navy, the Syvash platform served as a critical node in Russia’s operations, enabling surveillance and communications relay. It was also used to deploy electronic warfare equipment and short-range air defense systems designed to counter Ukrainian drone attacks targeting infrastructure in the Odesa and Mykolaiv regions, and to threaten civilian shipping Censor.NET.
Details of the Operation
The operation involved a coordinated effort between the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and units of Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces. Ukrainian forces employed maritime unmanned surface drones and aerial unmanned aircraft to strike Russian personnel and equipment stationed on the offshore structure Yahoo News. The attack resulted in significant personnel losses and damage to command and communication systems.
Destruction of the Ka-27 Helicopter
During the operation, a Russian Ka-27 helicopter attempting to land on the platform was destroyed by Ukrainian naval forces NV.ua. The Ka-27 is a multifunctional helicopter commonly used by Russian military aviation for naval support missions, including anti-submarine warfare, search-and-rescue operations, reconnaissance, and logistical transport NV.ua.
Russian Military Use of Offshore Platforms
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Russian forces have repurposed several offshore drilling platforms in the northwestern Black Sea for military use. These platforms have been equipped with radar, communications systems, and electronic warfare equipment to enhance surveillance coverage over maritime approaches to the Crimean Peninsula.
Recent Losses of Russian Helicopters
As of March 5, 2026, Russian forces have reportedly lost 348 helicopters since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine NV.ua. A previous Ka-27 helicopter was reported destroyed in Russian-occupied Crimea on February 17, 2026.