The Mikhail-Somov: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

The 'Mikhail Somov' has been successfully refloated after running aground on July 25, 2023, between Komsomolsky Islands and Wilchek Land in the vicinity of the Franz Josef Land archipelago. This operation took place without external assistance, as the vessel was able to free itself on August 7. Following the refloating, divers conducted a thorough examination of the hull to assess any potential damage. On August 15, the ship continued its journey towards Arkhangelsk, with an estimated time of arrival (ETA) set for August 28.

In a significant operation, the Border Department of the Federal Security Service of Russia conducted an investigation into allegations of illegal fishing activities linked to the crew of the vessel 'Mikhail Somov'. Docked in Arkhangelsk on November 18, 2018, the ship became the focus of scrutiny following reports of unlawful extraction of aquatic biological resources. During the inspection, authorities uncovered a shocking 1,850 kilograms of illegally harvested fish, including sturgeon, salmon, and whitefish. The seizure included six Siberian sturgeon weighing 35 kilograms, 108 Atlantic salmon totaling 638 kilograms, and a staggering 1,404 whitefish, which weighed in at 1,179 kilograms. Additionally, a reefer container and a 60-meter fishing net were confiscated as part of the operation. Preliminary evaluations indicate that the illegal activities resulted in a financial impact exceeding 15 million rubles on Russia's aquatic biological resources. The Frontier Department of the Federal Security Service will determine appropriate legal actions following this significant discovery. For more details, watch the Russian report [here](http://tv29.ru/new/index.php/bk-obshchestvo-2/17508-ekipazh-sudna-mikhail-somov-podozrevaetsya-v-nezakonnoj-dobyche-tsennykh-porod-ryb-na-15-millionov-rublej).

The RSV Mikhail Somov, an ice-class Research and Survey Vessel operated by the North Territorial Department for Hydrometeorology and Environmental Monitoring (HEMD), made a successful return to Arkhangelsk on August 8, marking the completion of its inaugural Arctic resupply mission for the year 2017. This critical mission involved the delivery of essential supplies to remote polar stations, including fuel, food, medical supplies, tools, overalls, and other necessary items for the well-being of research personnel. In addition, the Mikhail Somov transported construction materials along with skilled teams for the renovation of vital facilities at several Marine Hydrometeorological Stations, specifically MG-2 Kanin Nos, MG-2 Severny Kolguev, MG-2 Indiga, MG-2 Ust-Kara, MG-2 Solovki, and Y. Fedorov MG-2. These efforts are crucial for sustaining research operations in the challenging Arctic environment.