The m/t DASHAN, a damaged Suezmax tanker, was safely escorted through the Bosphorus by Turkish Coast Guard tugs after being targeted by Ukrainian forces.
As the waters of the Black Sea warm up, the Istanbul Strait witnessed a critical passage today. The 274-meter-long Suezmax crude oil tanker m/t DASHAN, reportedly belonging to Russia's 'Shadow Fleet,' was targeted by unmanned maritime vehicles (UMVs) from the Ukrainian Navy and was escorted through the Strait by tugboats belonging to the Turkish Coast Guard.
Attack and Repair Process
DASHAN, the third tanker hit in the Black Sea during an operation conducted by Ukrainian security forces (SBU) in December 2025, sustained severe damage to its steering gear and hull. The vessel, which lost its maneuverability, underwent temporary repairs in international waters north of the Istanbul Strait for approximately one month to prevent sinking and to maintain its seaworthiness at a minimum level.
'Damaged' Passage Through the Strait
At around 12:30 local time today, the giant tanker entered the Istanbul Strait from the north and was towed by powerful tugboats (Rescue series) from the Coast Guard General Directorate, as it could not use its own engine power. Extraordinary security measures were taken during the passage to ensure the safety of maritime traffic in the Strait.
A Ship Under the Shadow of Sanctions
Currently listed in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) records as 'stateless' or under a false Gambian flag, the vessel is at the top of the sanctions list of Western states. The U.S. Department of the Treasury (OFAC), the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and the European Union have blacklisted the ship for 'violating the price cap on Russian oil' and 'engaging in deceptive maritime activities,' noting that it is a critical component of Russia's 'Dark Fleet,' which is used to sustain its energy exports.
Analysis: Has the Danger Passed?
Experts emphasize that the passage of damaged and sanctioned vessels through the Turkish Straits increases environmental risks. The transit of DASHAN once again highlighted how delicate the balance of the Montreux Convention and maritime security is.
Source: www.denizhaber.com
