Russian Uniformed Personnel Spotted on “Shadow Fleet” Tankers in Baltic
The steady flow of Russian “shadow fleet” tankers through the Baltic has unnerved authorities in Denmark for years, since the aging vessels transit through the Danish Straits en route to Primorsk and Ust-Luga. The straits are pilotage waters, narrow, congested and close to populated areas, and a grounding or collision could cause a billion-dollar spill. The concerns grew when a shadow fleet tanker was implicated in the launch of the drone attack on Copenhagen airport on September 22.
Danwatch received the tip from an accomplished maritime professional, Bjarne Caesar, who is an admiralty court judge in addition to his active role as a licensed marine pilot. Caesar told the outlet that shadow fleet vessels have men in uniform on deck; that pilots are treated with disdain on board, and the crews are uncooperative – an inversion of the deference and respect that pilots can normally expect; and that there is an overall atmosphere of intimidation in the wheelhouse, seemingly aimed at keeping the foreign crew in check.
Unusual Behavior by Russian Crews
Caesar‘s account suggests a significant departure from standard maritime practices. Pilots typically enjoy a high level of cooperation and respect from vessel crews, but in this case, they are being rebuffed and treated with disdain. The presence of uniformed personnel on board adds to the concern, implying that the Russian government may be exerting control over these vessels.
NATO Member States’ Reluctance
Other NATO member states have been reluctant to directly confront Russian interests in the shadow fleet. The head of Estonia’s navy, Commodore Ivo Vark, told BBC that dozens of questionably-registered shadow fleet vessels pass by Estonia’s waters each year – but rarely are they pursued for a flag state verification boarding.
“With the Russian presence next to our borders, the risk of escalation is too high to do it on a regular basis,” Commodore Vark told BBC. This reluctance may be driven by concerns about provoking Russia or escalating tensions in the region.
Authorities’ Silence
Denmark’s state pilotage agency, foreign minister, ministry of foreign affairs and ministry of public security all declined to comment on the matter when asked by Danwatch. The lack of official response only adds to the mystery surrounding these shadow fleet vessels and their Russian connections.
Original Article: Danwatch: Uniformed Overseers Appear on “Shadow Fleet” Tankers in Baltic — The Maritime Executive