Ukrainian Navy Strikes Sanctioned Tanker Near Tuapse Using Sea Drones
The vessel reportedly operated without tracking signals in open waters, raising suspicions about its activity. The strike targeted a critical section, potentially affecting its movement.
As reported by General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
On the morning of April 29, units of the Naval Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine struck the sanctioned tanker “MARQUISE,” using two unmanned maritime kamikaze drones.
According to available data, the vessel sails under the flag of Cameroon, was not carrying cargo, and has a deadweight of over 37,000 tons. At the time of the incident, the tanker was in open waters approximately 210 kilometers southeast of the Russian city of Tuapse. At the same time, it was not transmitting an Automatic Identification System (AIS) signal, which may indicate an attempt to conceal its activities. It is likely that the vessel was awaiting the transfer of petroleum products from another tanker.
Strike Details
The strike targeted the stern of the vessel – in the area of the propeller-rudder system and the engine room. The exact extent of the damage is currently being уточнюється.
It is known that the tanker “MARQUISE” is under sanctions from several countries and international organizations, including Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Canada. According to reports, it was used for the illegal transportation of petroleum products.
Further Actions
The Ukrainian Defense Forces emphasize that operations targeting such objectives will continue. These actions are aimed at countering the armed aggression of the Russian Federation and limiting its resource capabilities.
The operation is another example of the use of maritime drones to strike strategic targets in the maritime domain.
Original Article: Ukrainian Navy strikes sanctioned tanker near Tuapse using sea drones — Mezha