Ukraine’s SSU Targets Russian “Shadow Fleet” Tanker in Black Sea
The Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) has successfully targeted a tanker belonging to Russia‘s “shadow fleet” in the Black Sea using its Mamai maritime drone. The press service published a video of the strike, which marks the fourth such operation against a vessel from this fleet in the past ten days.
The targeted vessel is the Avero, subject to Ukrainian sanctions and involved in transporting Russian crude oil to countries like China and India. The SSU noted that the Mamai drones are capable of reaching speeds of up to 110 kilometers per hour, making them highly effective in targeting these vessels.
Characteristics of Russia’s “Shadow Fleet”
The Suezmax-class tankers targeted by the SSU belong to the “shadow fleet,” a network of ships used to circumvent international sanctions against Russia. These vessels are often registered under flags of convenience and have complex ownership structures, making them difficult to track and monitor.
According to Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, since May 2026, the registered owner of the Avero has been Zoratyn Crestwave Limited, incorporated in Hong Kong that year. Commercial and technical management of the vessel is carried out by Crown Navigation Services FZE, registered in the UAE.
Prior to this, the registered owner was Ordo Voyage, an Azerbaijani company, while commercial and ISM manager Marisyn Fluxhaven was also registered in Azerbaijan. The frequent changes in jurisdictions, registered owners, and operators are a typical practice for vessels in Russia‘s “shadow fleet.”
Recent Strikes Against Russian Oil Infrastructure
In addition to targeting the Avero, the SSU’s drones have struck three oil depots in the city of Mikhailovsk in Russia‘s Stavropol Krai. These strikes demonstrate the effectiveness of Ukraine‘s maritime drone capabilities and their ability to disrupt Russia’s energy infrastructure.
The Mamai naval drone is a key component of Ukraine‘s efforts to counter Russian aggression at sea. Its high speed and maneuverability make it an ideal platform for targeting vessels like those in Russia‘s “shadow fleet.”
Original Article: An SSU Maritime Drone Struck a Tanker Belonging to Russia’s “Shadow Fleet” in the Black Sea — Militarnyi