Priority Broadcast Alert – Europe and the Mediterranean

A Cameroon-flagged tanker was struck by an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) during loading operations at the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) offshore terminal in Yuzhnaya Ozereevka, Russia. Reportedly, the vessel was struck on the starboard quarter, between the engine room and the boiler room. A fire subsequently broke out, which was brought under control by the crew and the CPC emergency response team. The crew subsequently abandoned the vessel, with the exception of the master and chief officer, who were evacuated by a tug. No casualties or pollution were reported in connection with the incident, and the tanker remained afloat at the time of writing. Ambrey was aware that this was the third tanker to have been struck during loading operations at the terminal within the previous twenty-hour period. Ambrey understands that loading operations were subsequently suspended at the terminal.

ADVICE: Vessels conducting Black Sea port calls are advised to conduct comprehensive dynamic voyage threat assessments. The crew is advised to remain within the designated Safe Muster Point (SMP) during unmanned aerial vehicle or missile attacks on infrastructure. The SMP should be located above the waterline, amidships, and low down in the superstructure.