Finnish investigators have linked the seized tanker Eagle S to damage inflicted upon subsea power and data cables. A seabed drag mark, stretching dozens of kilometers, has been traced to the vessel’s anchor, which is missing. The damaged 170-kilometer power cable connecting Finland and Estonia, severed on December 25th, is the focus of the investigation, alongside disruptions to four data cables. The Eagle S, detained for possible aggravated criminal mischief, is currently anchored near Kilpilahti port while poor weather conditions hinder further investigation.
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Finnish investigators discovered a nearly 100km seabed trail near a damaged underwater electricity cable, linking the damage to the Russian-linked ship *Eagle S*. The *Eagle S*’s anchor is believed to be responsible, causing damage to the Estlink 2 cable connecting Finland and Estonia. This suspected act of sabotage, which will take months to repair and increase Estonian electricity prices, follows a pattern of similar incidents targeting underwater infrastructure. While the crew of the *Eagle S* consisted of Georgian and Indian nationals, the ship’s recent docking in Russia and its suspected cargo of Russian oil products point towards potential Russian involvement.
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The Russia-linked tanker Eagle S, detained in Finland for damaging an undersea cable, was equipped with sophisticated transmitting and receiving devices, transforming it into a de facto spy ship. This equipment, unusual for a merchant vessel, monitored NATO naval activity and was offloaded in Russia for analysis. The ship’s crew, allegedly threatened, remained silent about the espionage activities. A similar setup was also found on a related tanker, Swiftsea Rider, highlighting a pattern of potentially illicit activity within a larger fleet of Russia-linked vessels.
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In response to the current situation, Prime Minister Petteri Orpo emphasizes the need for increased preparedness in Finland. This includes a review of existing legislation to further enhance national resilience. The government’s commitment involves actively addressing the challenges and acquiring additional resources. No passive observation is acceptable; concrete action and improved preparedness are prioritized.
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John Q. Hosedrinker