The Russian cargo ship Ursa Major sank in the Mediterranean Sea between Spain and Algeria after an engine room explosion. According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, 14 of the ship’s 16 crew members were successfully rescued, but two are still unaccounted for.
The Incident
The vessel, built in 2009 and operated by Oboronlogistika, a company linked to Russia’s Defense Ministry, was reportedly en route to Vladivostok. The vessel was carrying two large port cranes along with components for icebreakers.
Although the cause of the explosion remains unclear, unverified footage from a passing ship showed Ursa Major listing heavily to its starboard side, with the bow sinking lower into the water.
Rescue Operations
The surviving crew members were evacuated to Spain, with reports suggesting that Spanish Navy vessels and other ships participated in the rescue efforts. The rescued sailors were brought to the port of Cartagena.
The Vessel and Its Cargo
Previously known as Sparta III, Ursa Major departed from St. Petersburg on December 11, bound for Vladivostok with an expected arrival date of January 22. Despite this, some reports noted its history of docking at Syria’s Tartous port, fueling speculation about its intended route.
The vessel’s cargo included specialized cranes for Vladivostok and components for icebreaker ships.The operator of the ship, SK-Yug, and its parent company, Oboronlogistika, have not yet provided any comments on the incident.
Ongoing Investigations
The Foreign Ministry’s crisis center is coordinating efforts to locate the two missing crew members and determine the cause of the explosion. Meanwhile, maritime authorities in Spain are likely to collaborate in investigating the incident.
Broader Implications
This incident highlights the risks of maritime operations in the Mediterranean and raises questions about cargo safety and ship maintenance. Given the involvement of a defense-related company, the event could draw international scrutiny.
Conclusion
As search efforts continue, the focus remains on finding the missing crew and uncovering the reasons behind the explosion. The sinking of Ursa Major is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by seafarers and the complexities of maritime logistics.
