A third reported attack on a commercial vessel in the Black Sea within the last three weeks has heightened concerns over escalating maritime hostilities as the conflict in Ukraine continues [[1]]. Ukrainian naval forces reportedly targeted the “DASHAN,” a Comoros-flagged chemical tanker, with unmanned surface vessels, adding to previous incidents involving the “KAIROS,” “VIRAT,” and “MIDVOLGA-2” [[2]]. Thes attacks are occurring along a critical trade route, prompting scrutiny from international shipping companies and raising insurance rates for vessels operating in the region.
A third reported attack in as many weeks has occurred in the Black Sea, raising concerns about maritime security in the region.
UKRAINE REPORTEDLY TARGETS TANKER IN BLACK SEA
Ukrainian naval forces, utilizing unmanned surface vessels (USVs) known as “Sea Baby,” reportedly attacked the “DASHAN,” a chemical tanker flagged in the Comoros Islands.
Footage circulating on social media appears to show at least two USVs involved in the assault. The “Dashan” tanker has a deadweight tonnage of 164,608 and measures 275 meters in length and 50 meters in width.
PREVIOUS INCIDENTS REPORTED
On November 28, the tanker vessels “KAIROS” and “VIRAT” were reportedly attacked near Kefken, a town in the Kandıra district of Kocaeli province, and off the coast of Kastamonu.
Further incidents were reported on December 2, when the tanker “MIDVOLGA-2,” carrying sunflower oil from Russia to Georgia, was allegedly targeted in international waters approximately 80 nautical miles offshore. The recent attacks underscore the increasing risks to commercial shipping in the Black Sea, a vital route for global trade.
