A Russian-linked tanker lingered over a critical NATO undersea cable in the Arctic, prompting Norwegian authorities to suspect deliberate reconnaissance activity.
Tanker’s Suspicious Activity Near Critical Infrastructure
Norwegian Armed Forces footage shows the tanker remaining directly above a critical fiber optic cable belonging to the Globus station for several hours. Military officials believe this may indicate intentional reconnaissance by Russia’s “shadow fleet” off the Arctic coast, aimed at mapping NATO’s communication infrastructure.
The 245-meter long “Apple,” with a capacity of 105,000 tons, is linked by Norwegian authorities to the so-called shadow fleet used by Moscow to circumvent oil export sanctions.
Russian Explanation Contradicted by Thermal Analysis
The Russian embassy in Oslo stated the vessel experienced a sudden engine failure, with the captain reporting the malfunction to rescue services and drifting while awaiting technical assistance. However, Norwegian military thermal analysis revealed active operation of side thrusters, generating a significant heat signature, allowing the “Apple” to maintain a precise position over the cable.
Norwegian Military: Deliberate Mapping Attempt
“This does not appear to be a random technical failure, but a deliberate and coordinated activity aimed at mapping critical infrastructure in real conditions,” stated Colonel Vegard Finberg, spokesperson for the Operational Command. “Using emergency procedures as cover for intelligence activities poses a serious challenge to the safety of navigation in our northern maritime areas.”
Arctic Scenarios: Sabotage and Blockade Testing
Norwegian analysts believe Russia is testing scenarios for sabotage and blockade of critical infrastructure in the Arctic, which could potentially be used in other NATO waters. Norwegian intelligence services previously warned of similar threats in their annual security assessment.
Globus Station: Key NATO Monitoring Post
The Globus Radar Station has been operational since the 1970s, comprising the Globus II and the newer Globus III radar systems. Officially, the system monitors objects in space, but analysts say it also observes Russian ballistic missile tests over the Barents Sea and the activity of the Northern Fleet.
Prior Incident: Ignoring Norwegian Coast Guard
The same tanker had previously evaded control by the Norwegian Coast Guard, ignoring radio calls and leaving Norway’s exclusive economic zone.