Ukraine’s latest generation of naval drones has made its debut on the international stage.
According to the defense outlet Militarnyi, the modernized Magura v7.2, along with two other Ukrainian uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), participated in NATO’s REPMUS exercise in Portugal, a three-week multinational training event focused on maritime innovation.
The REPMUS series, organized annually by NATO member states, brings together experimental and operational unmanned platforms to test emerging technologies and joint tactics. This year, Ukrainian drones joined vessels from across the Alliance, marking one of the most visible demonstrations of Ukraine’s growing role in unmanned maritime warfare.
Observers in the local port identified three Ukrainian systems delivered for the exercise, two of which were heavily modified variants of the Magura v7 platform. These updated versions were publicly displayed for the first time.
The Magura v7.2 has undergone major changes to its hull and weapons layout. The missile launchers, once located at the stern, have been repositioned to the center of the deck, improving balance and stability. Exhaust outlets have been shifted away from the sides, while the drone’s camera has been elevated higher on a mast, which now also carries a navigation radar.
The modifications are aimed at enhancing both survivability and combat effectiveness. The upgraded design was also evident on a Magura v7.2 configured with a machine gun turret, transported by trailer to the coast for demonstration. On this variant, the weapon module has been moved forward, closer to the bow. Analysts suggest the change was likely driven by operational feedback, as the vessel’s nose tended to rise during acceleration, limiting the firing angles of the weapon system.
In addition to its repositioned turret, this platform was fitted with a new mast carrying an optical module, though without radar equipment. Together, the changes reflect Ukraine’s continued efforts to refine and expand the tactical flexibility of its naval drones.
The Magura series has already played a prominent role in Ukraine’s maritime operations, including strikes against Russian naval assets in the Black Sea. Its appearance at REPMUS underscores Kyiv’s ambition to align its systems with NATO standards and to integrate lessons learned from combat into future designs.
For Ukraine, the REPMUS exercise represents more than technology trials. It is also an opportunity to demonstrate its defense innovation to NATO allies and to highlight the adaptability of its unmanned platforms under wartime conditions. By showcasing operational systems in front of international partners, Ukraine signals its readiness to contribute to allied experiments and joint maritime security initiatives.
In a statement, Militarnyi emphasized that the exercise gathered naval drones from multiple nations “to test new technologies and conduct experiments over three weeks,” highlighting the role of Ukraine’s systems in shaping the future of maritime warfare.
As Ukraine pushes forward with unmanned innovation, the Magura v7.2 stands as a visible example of how combat experience, rapid adaptation, and allied cooperation are converging to shape the next generation of naval power.