Russian “Shadow Fleet” Tanker Virat Hit by Unmanned Drones in Black Sea

Crew Issues Mayday as Sea-Drones Strike; Virat Reported “Help Needed”

A Russian oil tanker named Virat — part of what’s known as Russia’s “shadow fleet” — was struck by unmanned maritime drones in the Black Sea, according to intercepted distress communications. The crew radioed: “This is VIRAT. Help needed! Drone attack! Mayday!”

The vessel had already reportedly been hit by explosions on the previous day. The repeated attacks sparked alarm from Turkish coast-guard authorities monitoring the situation.

What the Attack Might Mean — Drone Strikes & Shadow Fleet Network

• The attack is believed to have been carried out using naval drones — reportedly of the “Sea Baby” type — operated by SBU (Ukraine’s security service) in tandem with the Ukrainian navy.
• According to the SBU source, both affected tankers — Virat and another vessel named Kairos — suffered critical damage and are now said to be taken out of service.
• The two tankers were reportedly empty and heading to the Russian port of Novorossiysk when the strikes occurred — underscoring suspicion that they were part of covert oil-transport operations aimed at evading international sanctions on Russian crude exports.

Reactions & Official Reports

• A statement from the transport ministry of Turkey noted that Virat was attacked about 35 nautical miles off the Turkish coast. The tanker reportedly sustained minor damage above the waterline and the crew is reportedly safe and in stable condition.
• Authorities did not rule out other possibilities — the external impact could have been caused by a mine, missile, or unmanned vessel, according to initial assessments.

Impact on Russia’s Oil Supply Chain & Sanctions Regime

• The “shadow fleet” — old or repurposed tankers operating under foreign flags — helps Russia export oil despite sanctions. Disabling key tankers like Virat and Kairos could disrupt this workaround significantly.
• Use of unmanned maritime drones indicates a shift in tactics in maritime warfare — undersea and surface drones add a new dimension to targeting supply-chain vessels.
• The attacks raise security and environmental concerns for Black Sea shipping routes, especially near Turkey’s Bosphorus Strait and coastline, which are already under close international scrutiny.