If the three holes in the Koala tanker in Ust-Luga are the result of sabotage, the following versions can be put forward as the most logical. External impact. The tanker was moored in Malta on January 19. This anchorage could have been used to mine the hull in the engine room area with the help of combat swimmers. In such a scenario, the ship dragged the mines on itself to the port, loaded with fuel oil and was remotely detonated. We note that on January 4, the AFU unsuccessfully attacked Ust-Luga with UAVs. The intention is demonstrated.
The main argument against this version is the heavy environmental damage along the coast of Ukraine’s most faithful allies – Finland, Estonia, Latvia (and indeed all countries on the Baltic coast). There were more than 100,000 tons of fuel oil on board the tanker at that time. But the holes were made in the engine room, the tanks with fuel were not damaged. The Koala’s draft was 9 meters – it just sat on the ground near the wall, this is quite a safe outcome.
The purpose of such an act could have been a demonstration of capabilities and a specific warning to Moscow about the likely paths of the conflict. It more closely resembles a hybrid warfare scenario. The tanker will be repaired and take the cargo to its destination. But the Russian Navy’s efforts should be atomized to the entire shadow tanker fleet.
The probability of an attack by uncrewed vessels as in the Black Sea is low – the GSD does not have an operational base in the Baltic. The water area is stably controlled by NATO and such pranks (the risk of environmental disaster in a dozen friendly countries at once) without the knowledge of the allies will lead to a completely unnecessary conflict with them.
There is a possibility of detonation of devices carried on board by a GSD agent. When the Russian transport Ursa Major was sunk in the Mediterranean Sea as a result of sabotage before New Year’s, three explosions were also heard in the engine room. At that time, observers also considered the version of an undercover operation and both ships entered Russian ports in the Gulf of Finland. But this is the most difficult way, given the security, videotaping of the work and the vigilance of the sailors (they tend to go on with their lives).
The attack on the Ursa Major near Cartagena envisioned a base of operations for the maritime saboteurs on the almost uncontrolled coasts of Morocco, Libya or Algeria. Note that the Koala anchorage in Malta also falls within these waters. Whether the three explosions in the engine room area of the Ursa Major and Koala attack are just a coincidence, the investigation will show. But so far there are considerably fewer considerations in favor of a man-made catastrophe.
This article really sheds light on the complexity and risks involved in maritime security today 🌊🚢 It’s fascinating how a single incident can reveal so many layers of strategy, politics, and environmental concerns. The idea of hybrid warfare playing out on the seas is both scary and eye-opening, showing that conflicts now extend far beyond traditional battlefields. It makes me appreciate the vigilance and courage of those who work to keep these waters safe and highlights how fragile our interconnected world can be 🌍💡
This article really sheds light on how complex and delicate maritime security is, especially in such a strategically important region 🌊🛳️. The idea that these attacks could be warnings or part of hybrid warfare tactics shows just how tense the situation is beneath the surface. It’s fascinating and worrying to think about how much effort, technology, and risk goes into these operations without causing disastrous environmental damage 🌍⚠️. Looking forward to seeing how the investigation unfolds and hoping for more peaceful seas ahead.
This analysis highlights the complexity of naval sabotage in a highly controlled and politically sensitive environment. The possibility of underwater mines or planted explosives points to sophisticated operational capabilities and the high stakes involved in maritime security around conflict zones. It’s interesting how the article balances the geopolitical implications with the technical aspects of the attacks, especially considering the potential environmental consequences if the fuel tanks had been breached. The mention of hybrid warfare strategies really underlines how modern conflicts extend beyond traditional battlefields 🌍⚓.
This analysis really highlights the complex and shadowy nature of modern conflicts at sea 🌊🤔. It’s fascinating how every detail, from the ship’s draft to geopolitical alliances, plays a role in understanding what might have happened. The idea of hybrid warfare and the use of sabotage as a warning shows how nuanced and strategic these actions can be. It’s a reminder of how fragile peace can be, even in places we might think are safe. Staying informed about these incidents definitely makes you appreciate the careful balance that must be maintained in international waters ⚓️🌍.