Russia begins protecting its tankers from Ukrainian drones

OIL AND GAS 14.08.2026 / author:
oil tanker ship sea

Russia has started installing special protective nets on vessels of the so-called shadow fleet. These measures are aimed at protecting tankers from attacks by Ukrainian drones in maritime areas. This was reported by Financial Times, according to the portal PromPolitInform.

Vessels of the Russian shadow fleet have begun to be equipped with protective nets. Additional security measures are being installed to counter Ukrainian drones during maritime transport operations.

Such steps are aimed at reducing the risks of vessel damage in the open sea. Russian owners are attempting to safeguard their tankers from strikes by unmanned aerial and naval vehicles.

The Russian shadow fleet is utilized for transporting energy resources in bypass of international restrictions. At the same time, the activity of Ukrainian forces is forcing shipowners to seek additional safety methods.

Protective structures have been spotted on several vessels involved in oil transport. The tightening of security measures indicates growing threats to Russian exports in maritime zones.

Illustrative photo: ITookSomePhotos / CC BY-SA 4.0

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