A week ago, we published a new study by our Association, describing the use of shadow fleet tankers by Russian intelligence and military agencies, placing professional military personnel in the ranks of “Technician” or “Supernumerary” on board, allegedly as “crew members.”
Citing a number of specific, proven examples, we concluded that such militarization of shadow fleet vessels makes them a legitimate target for parties to an international conflict, and provides grounds for third-party jurisdictions to conduct inspections and deny passage through straits, territorial seas, and exclusive zones.
Based on the materials of this investigation, our Association notified international maritime bodies and national maritime administrations of civilized countries, who have taken these facts into account in their activities.
Following this, on January 27, a statement was issued by the maritime administrations of Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, and Sweden. The statement pointed that vessels in the North and Baltic Seas must comply with the applicable requirements of the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), as well as other international regulations regarding watchkeeping and bridge watchkeeping.
The statement also emphasized that GNSS interference and AIS manipulation pose threats to maritime safety and security, and that vessels must be provided with sufficient capabilities and properly trained crews, in accordance with the requirements of international conventions, to safely operate during navigation system failures.
Our Association will continue to collaborate with our international partners on these issues.
