The Soviet battleship Novorossiysk encountered a World War II-era mine while it was docked at the harbor in Sevastopol, a strategic naval base in Crimea. This incident occurred due to the lingering hazards of unexploded ordnance from the war. The battleship had been undergoing repairs and maintenance when it unexpectedly struck the submerged mine, resulting in a catastrophic explosion that compromised the hull and stability of the vessel.

Rescue operations were immediately initiated, but the explosion led to the drowning of many crew members who were aboard at the time. Accounts of the explosion suggested that the blast was felt throughout the harbor area and caused damage to nearby structures as well. The incident brought to light the dangers posed by the remnants of World War II, emphasizing the need for ongoing clearance operations in previously combat-affected regions.

In the aftermath, the Soviet Navy conducted a series of investigations to understand the circumstances surrounding the accident. The findings underscored the importance of mine clearance efforts in harbors and coastal areas and led to enhanced safety protocols for naval operations in the region. The event also became a topic of discussion regarding naval preparedness and maritime safety within the Soviet military at the time.