IISS: Russia Used Shadow Fleet Vessels to Spy on NATO Military Sites with Drones
Russia has used its shadow fleet tankers to launch drones that surveilled NATO member states' military installations, according to the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies.
The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), based in London, has reported that Russia employed its so-called shadow fleet tankers to conduct surveillance against NATO member states. According to the institute, drones were launched from these vessels to observe NATO military installations.
This practice indicates Russia's efforts to gather intelligence on the alliance's military infrastructure by using civilian ships as platforms. The shadow fleet consists of Russian vessels operating outside international sanctions and is often used for various purposes, including espionage.
The IISS did not provide further details on specific targets or the timing of operations. The report is part of broader research into Russian hybrid activities in Europe. NATO has not yet officially commented on this information.
