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Blacklisted Russian tanker transited Bosphorus with drone protection
The Russia-linked 'Grus 1' has transited northbound through the Bosphorus on Jan 9, 2026, despite ongoing war risks in the region. In anticipation of a potential Ukrainian drone strikes, the vessel appeared to have taken precautionary measures. Netting has been installed around the accommodation area to reduce potential damage. The tanker was formerly operated by the Russian state-owned company Sovcomflot (SCF) under the name 'SCF Caucasus'. Since the start of the Russian war against Ukraine, the Suezmax has undergone several name and flag changes, yet it remained one of the few Russia-linked tankers of its class not directly involved in false flag operations. The tanker was currently classed under RMRS and operated by the India-based Vigor Marine Services. At the onset of the war, the vessel served as a floating oil storage unit for Russia and was anchored in the Kavkaz OPL area under the name 'Firn', flying the Panama flag. However, due to heavy sanctions imposed by the EU and the UK, the ship became viable to operate only under a blacklisted flag and under Russian or Indian class societies. Eventually, it returned to open waters as 'Grus 1' flying the Cameroon flag. Video: https://www.instagram.com/p/DTVdLt9iIRP/
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