Story perspectives

Russian Tanker Fleet Deploys Drones Over Europe’s Energy Grid

6/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Russia’s shadow-fleet tankers have begun launching surveillance drones over Western energy infrastructure, flying above UK and European critical sites.
The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project recorded 56 drone incidents in 18 months, an 80 % rise.
European authorities have seized nine tankers since January, finding Russian nationals and equipment aboard.
Experts warn the fleet could sabotage cables and pipelines after a 153 % rise in Baltic drifting activity in 2024.

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Story summary

Russia’s shadow-fleet tankers have begun launching surveillance drones over Western energy infrastructure, flying above UK and European critical sites.
The Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project recorded 56 drone incidents in 18 months, an 80 % rise.
European authorities have seized nine tankers since January, finding Russian nationals and equipment aboard.
Experts warn the fleet could sabotage cables and pipelines after a 153 % rise in Baltic drifting activity in 2024.