Unmanned Sea Baby naval vehicles operated by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) carried out another offensive action in the Black Sea by striking the tanker Dashan (IMO 9299666), identified as part of Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet.”
The attack occurred while the vessel was sailing under the flag of the Comoros and moving at high speed through Ukraine’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), heading toward the port terminal of Novorossiysk, according to information shared by Ukrainian blogger Serhiy Sternenko.
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According to sources, the tanker was traveling with its transponder switched off, hindering identification, monitoring, and verification of its cargo — a common practice among vessels used by the parallel logistics network that supports Russian energy exports under international sanctions.
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The operation was jointly conducted by the SBU’s 13th Main Counterintelligence Department and the Ukrainian Navy, reinforcing the growing coordination between intelligence units and naval forces in targeted attacks on Russian strategic assets.
Initial reports indicate that the Dashan sustained critical damage, with preliminary assessments suggesting the vessel was rendered inoperable after being struck by the Sea Baby USVs.
The incident marks yet another episode in Ukraine’s efforts to disrupt Russia’s logistical and energy routes in the Black Sea, particularly those linked to the ghost fleet that operates outside international tracking and maritime safety standards.
Source and images: Telegram @ssternenko. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
