Russia Implements Underwater Security Checks Amid Rising Shipping Threats

Russian authorities, responding to increased threats, are intensifying inspections of merchant shipping at ports using divers and telemetric equipment to ensure the safety of vessels and infrastructure. Recent unexplained blasts damaging oil tankers in the Mediterranean and Baltic highlight the urgency of these security measures.

Russian authorities are ramping up security protocols at ports, as a response to escalating threats against merchant shipping and infrastructure. Divers will be employed to inspect the underside of vessels, according to a letter reviewed by Reuters.

The directive, issued by the Russian transport ministry and ROSMORRECHFLOT, mandates sea port captains to alert shipowners of the new requirements: all vessels docking at seaports must undergo inspections for foreign objects and explosives. This entails using divers and telemetric equipment for comprehensive underwater evaluations. The letter, dated February 14, cites an increased threat level to transport infrastructure and the safety of merchant shipping carrying dangerous and high-risk cargo.

Within the last month, explosions have damaged three oil tankers in the Mediterranean and another in the Baltic Sea, although the causes remain unclear. These incidents underscore the heightened need for rigorous security measures.