- Drone Attack Suspected on Shadow Fleet Vessel.
- Third Covert Maritime Strike in Recent Weeks.
- Flagging Irregularities Raise Fresh Compliance Concerns.
A sanctioned shadow fleet tanker was reportedly struck in the Black Sea on Wednesday. Maritime security sources have indicated that the vessel came under attack from unmanned surface vehicles while it was making its way to a significant Russian port, reports Lloyd’s List.
Tracking Data Reveals Sudden Course Change
Vessel-tracking information showed the tanker heading east before it suddenly slowed down, veered off its intended route, and turned off its AIS signal around midday.
Initial Reports Point to Drone-Led Strike
A maritime risk assessment group said it was aware of “reports from Russian sources” indicating an attack. The group added: “Although the incident has not yet been independently verified, the circumstances are consistent with previous Ukrainian strikes on merchant vessels believed to be part of Russia’s ‘shadow fleet’.”
Military Aircraft Detected Near Incident Area
A maritime security firm noted that a military aircraft flew over an area 16 nautical miles south of the location, “which correlates with the alleged time of the attack.
If Verified, this Would Mark the Third Strike in Recent Weeks
If confirmed, this incident would represent the third attack on shadow fleet tankers in the Black Sea over the past few weeks. Two previous assaults took place on November 28 and were claimed by Ukraine’s armed forces. Additionally, another strike near West Africa on November 27 was assessed as a “Ukrainian state-sponsored operation,” although there was no official claim made.
Questions Surrounding Flagging and Registry Status
AIS data suggested that the tanker was flagged under a West African nation, but global maritime records indicated that this flag was being misused. The national maritime administration of that country recently removed numerous sanctioned tankers from its registry.
Separate Detention in Odesa
Earlier that same day, Ukrainian authorities detained a bulker in Odesa on allegations of illegally exporting grain from occupied territory.
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Source: Lloyd’s List
