It is well known and even footage of the actual battle has been released, that Moskva was detected using Bayraktar TB-2 drone. Which also acted as a decoy to make the ship pointing it's air defence system (which has 180 degree coverage) in it's direction to counteract any attempt of attack from it (the drone was beyond engagement range). Thus letting Ukrainians attack with missiles from the other direction, leaving s…
People close to operation mentioned that having Byraktar nearby would have raised alertness of the crew, so it would not be beneficial. And the best luck was with a surprise attack. There was an interview with the commander of the unit and he mentions the atmospheric effect which allowed them to lock into the ship.