Russia Expands Naval Presence in Baltic Sea
Sweden’s navy has revealed a significant escalation in Russian military activity in the Baltic Sea, indicating a strategic move to protect a fleet of sanctioned oil tankers. Reports confirm the presence of uniformed Russian personnel aboard these vessels, which have been used to circumvent Western sanctions on Russian crude exports. This development highlights an increased and more permanent Russian naval presence in vital sea routes.
Military Operations Confirmed in Baltic Waters
Marko Petkovic, the Swedish navy’s chief of operations, shared that there have been credible reports of Russian military personnel on some oil tankers classified as part of Russia’s shadow fleet. This fleet, which has gained notoriety for evading sanctions, has seen a notable increase in activity, with Russian warships now regularly patrolling and providing cover for these tankers in the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland.
The shadow fleet is becoming a significant player in the global shipping sector, accounting for one in every six operational tankers worldwide. Recent data from S&P Global Market Intelligence indicates that this fleet now comprises approximately 17% of all operational tankers. The trend is particularly evident in the Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) segment, where the number of ‘grey’ vessels has surged from 10% to 18% of the total global VLCC fleet. Similarly, the share of ‘grey’ suezmax tankers has risen from 16% to 19% this year.
These developments underscore the evolving dynamics in the Baltic region, where Russia appears to be reinforcing its maritime capabilities amid ongoing tensions. The confirmation of military personnel aboard these vessels marks a notable shift in the operational landscape, raising concerns among NATO forces and regional allies about the implications for security and shipping in the area.
