News reports and relegations concerning a maritime drone discovered off the island of Lefkada continued unabated on Thursday with details regarding its operational systems and possible mission profile.
According to a report broadcast by the Athens-based Star Channel, the suspected Ukrainian-made Magura V5 unmanned surface vessel was equipped with not one but two separate satellite systems. One satellite link handled GPS positioning and navigation data, while the second enabled remote steering and the live transmission of video feeds from onboard cameras to the operator.
Reports indicate that if the second satellite connection was lost, the drone automatically activated a concealment protocol and navigates toward pre-programmed safe locations. Investigators now believe that the sea cove in Lefkada, where the drone was ultimately found, had already been selected and mapped in advance by its operators.
Experts reportedly assess that someone on the ground had designated the location as a secure shelter point, raising the possibility that similar pre-selected sites may exist on other Greek islands or rocky islets across the region.
If the drone also loses its primary GPS-linked satellite connection, the Magura V5 system reportedly activates a self-destruction mechanism. In practical terms, officials say the vessel then turns into a moving “blind” naval explosive device, significantly increasing the danger posed to nearby shipping traffic.
Questions also remain over the presence of two Bulgarian fishermen who, according to reports, were operating in the exact area where the drone was discovered. Greek authorities are reportedly considering their presence worthy of further investigation, although it remains unclear whether they have formally testified as part of the case file being compiled by the Greek Coast Guard.
The latest revelations come amid an expanding Greek military and intelligence investigation into the drone’s origin and intended target. As reported over the past week, military analysts have already concluded that the explosive-laden vessel was of Ukrainian origin following analysis of GPS data, serial numbers and onboard systems. Defense Minister Nikos Dendias publicly described the incident as “an extremely serious issue,” warning that such unmanned vessels threaten freedom and safety of navigation in the eastern Mediterranean and Ionian seas.
Greek authorities are also examining whether the drone may have been launched from a “mother ship” operating in the Ionian Sea and whether support personnel may have been present on Greek territory to assist with remote guidance and operational awareness. Analysts cited in recent reports noted that such vessels are exceptionally difficult to detect because of their stealth design and minimal profile above the waterline, especially in rough sea conditions.
