Experts raise concerns about dark fleet tanker in Mediterranean
Concerns are mounting over a so-called “dark fleet” oil tanker, the Chariot Tide, which has exhibited unusual behavior in the Mediterranean. Recent tracking data from MarineTraffic indicates that the vessel left northern Russia, passed through the Baltic Sea, and was heading south towards the Strait of Gibraltar, with its destination signaling Tangier, Morocco.
As the Chariot Tide neared the Strait of Gibraltar on January 22, it began transmitting a “Not Under Command” signal. Subsequently, four tugboats surrounded it as it drifted eastward through the strait at a reduced speed. On January 24, the tanker was tracked making looping movements in the Mediterranean before continuing eastward, still at low speed.
The reasons behind these irregular movements remain unclear. Mark Douglas, an analyst at Starboard Maritime Intelligence, noted that the ship’s direction does not align with its orientation, suggesting it may be subject to strong winds.
A second tanker, named Progress, has also recently indicated it is “Not Under Command” while navigating the Mediterranean. Douglas reported that this vessel has since updated its status to “In Casualty or Repairing.” Satellite imagery reveals that it, too, is traveling in a different direction than it is pointed.
Michelle Bockmann, a senior analyst at Windward, suggested that the Progress is likely transporting Russian crude oil toward markets in India or China. Meanwhile, the Chariot Tide is being monitored by a Spanish search and rescue vessel in international waters.
Bockmann further explained that the Chariot Tide is flagged to Mozambique, a practice often associated with the “dark fleet,” which typically operates without insurance. This raises concerns about potential liabilities in the event of an oil spill, complicating issues around cleanup responsibilities.
“The dark fleet is an accident waiting to happen, and it’s unsurprising, in one respect, that we’re seeing vessels having mechanical difficulties,” Bockmann stated.
This situation highlights growing scrutiny over the activities of the dark fleet, a term used to describe vessels that engage in clandestine operations, often avoiding detection and regulatory oversight. The complex dynamics in this region underscore the critical need for monitoring international maritime activities, particularly as geopolitical tensions rise.
As the situation unfolds, it raises important questions about maritime safety and environmental protection, especially in a region already burdened by heavy shipping traffic and strained diplomatic relations.
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