Ukraine Tests World's First Purpose-Built Robot Aircraft Carrier for Drones

Ukraine has unveiled the world's first dedicated drone aircraft carrier, the 7-meter-long Magura MV11 marine drone, during the Ukrainian Independence Day parade on the Dnipro River. The motor-boat-resembling sea drone, manufactured by UFORCE since 2023, is designed to carry and launch other unmanned systems, effectively acting as a mobile naval base. With a usable payload of 2,200 kilograms (4,850 pounds), the MV11 can operate autonomously for up to seven days.

Developed jointly by UFORCE designers and a Portuguese R&D bureau, the MV11 is financed by unnamed Ukrainian allied states. The vessel features a flat top divided into transport sections, with doors protecting the transport section from sea and spray. Videos show the compartments in a closed position, while images suggest up to 20-40 aircraft could be launched in a single wave, with potential for three waves if the FPV drones are stored hopper-style in layers.

Beyond its aircraft carrier configuration, the MV11 can also be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, amphibious operations, and as a supply vessel for fuel and equipment used by Ukrainian naval drones. The drone can perform these tasks 24/7 and in all weather conditions. Russia has struggled to contain Ukraine's growing sea drone threat, deploying various advanced military assets to block ships and shore-based machine guns.

However, Ukraine's Magura-series maritime drones, armed with anti-aircraft missiles since 2025, have effectively disabled or destroyed Russian warships, including the sinking of two ships in February 2024.