Russia has made its "old" amphibious aircraft Be-12 MAIL a key asset in military operations in the Black Sea, which was created in the Soviet era in the 1950s.
According to British intelligence, in recent weeks, the Russian military has placed hope on gaining an advantage in the Black Sea through the maritime aviation of the Black Sea Fleet.
They are paying special attention to operations for patrolling the maritime space of the waters. Presumably, Russia is attempting to deter drone attacks on its ships and facilities in this manner.
"A key Russian asset in these operations is the Be-12 MAIL amphibious aircraft, designed in the 1950s, flying out of bases in occupied Crimea," says British intelligence.
Russia also uses combat aircraft like the Su-24 (specifically referring to their classifications as Fencer and Flanker) for strike operations in the waters. This type of aviation was employed by the Russian army during the recent attack on Snake Island, which is currently under Ukrainian control.
It is noted that Russia plans to relocate a larger number of naval forces to Novorossiysk to deter attacks on Sevastopol.
"With more Fleet activities likely relocating to Novorossiysk in the face of threats to Sevastopol, Russia is attempting to use naval air power to project force over the north-western Black Sea," the report states.
