Image: by Toloka
By Liam Scott | Staff Writer with Agencies
LVIV, Ukraine — The Ukrainian Armed Forces are preparing to receive one of the largest submarine drones ever developed, the TLK-1000, a weapon designed to challenge Russia’s naval dominance in the Black Sea.
The drone, revealed publicly for the first time at the Brave1 Defense Tech Valley exposition in Lviv on September 19, is part of Ukraine’s expanding arsenal of unmanned systems. Measuring 12 meters in length, the TLK-1000 is capable of striking targets up to 2,000 kilometers away while carrying an explosive payload of up to 5,000 kilograms. Its destructive capacity makes it a potential game-changer against large warships, naval ports, and critical infrastructure such as the Kerch Bridge, which links Russian-occupied Crimea to mainland Russia.
Ukrainian company Toloka unveiled a new line of underwater drones at Defense Tech Valley 2025. The TLK-200, TLK-400, and TLK-1000 offer ranges up to 2,000 km and payloads up to 5,000 kg. Designed for recon, minelaying, and strike missions, these AI-integrated drones mark a leap… pic.twitter.com/bT3aGi4n9l
— NOELREPORTS 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 (@NOELreports) September 22, 2025
Variants for Multiple Missions
While the TLK-1000 drew the most attention, Ukraine also presented two smaller variants designed for specialized missions.
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TLK-200: A three-meter-long, piloted underwater drone, optimized for stealth operations within 100 kilometers of its launch site. Powered by dual electric motors, it can operate undetected for up to 15 days, supported by a thermal camera and countermeasures against electronic warfare. This system is suited for covert reconnaissance and precision strikes in heavily monitored waters.
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TLK-400: A hybrid-powered model capable of operating over longer ranges and carrying a larger payload. It combines endurance with offensive power, offering flexibility for missions beyond the reach of the TLK-200.
Beyond Strike Missions
According to company representatives speaking with RBC-Ukraine, the drones can be modified for mine clearance, acoustic detection of enemy submarines, and seabed mapping.
“Our drones detect, classify, and neutralize underwater mines autonomously, significantly increasing the safety and efficiency of maritime operations,” the developers stated.
Strategic Implications
Though not officially confirmed, Ukrainian military officials indicated that the TLK series will soon be integrated into service. A broader package of new technologies — including unmanned surface vessels, robotic ground systems, and electronic warfare platforms — is also expected to reinforce Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
The TLK-1000 and its variants underline Ukraine’s growing reliance on asymmetric naval warfare, designed to offset Russia’s conventional superiority at sea. With the Black Sea playing a critical role in both logistics and military operations, these systems could force Russia to further adapt its naval posture and invest in countermeasures.