What Crew Members Say About Chai

On the night of November 1, 2025, Ukraine's military launched a targeted strike on the oil terminal located at the Russian Black Sea port of Tuapse. The operation resulted in significant damage to the loading facility and three tankers: the Aframax vessel 'Pollux' (IMO: 9243320), the product tanker 'Coast Buster,' and the 'Chai.' Utilizing Piston-engined drones, reminiscent of Ukraine's previous aerial strikes that have frequently targeted Russian oil and gas installations, the assault ignited at least three separate fires on the pier and the vessels docked there. NASA FIRMS fire detection technology captured a large infrared heat signature emanating from the facility, which was identifiable from space. As dawn broke on November 2, aerial defense operations remained active, indicated by tracer fire in the sky, suggesting that efforts to repel the attack continued even after the initial hits. Additionally, the strike led to a significant oil spill in the surrounding waters. This incident follows a prior assault on the deepwater port that took place in late September, which involved a coordinated attack combining both air and surface drones. Notably, one suicide drone boat successfully penetrated Russian defenses during that earlier assault, resulting in damage to the loading pier. For detailed coverage, including photos and video, visit the report at https://www.maritime-executive.com/article/ukraine-hits-oil-pier-at-port-of-tuapse-in-long-range-drone-attack.