Mys-Zhelaniya Vessel Reviews and Specifications

In a notable development, the 'Mys Zhelaniya' successfully docked at the Libyan port of Tobruk on January 16, 2023, transporting military cargo from the Russian port of Baltiysk. The presence of a Project 1155 Udaloy-class anti-submarine warfare vessel escorting the 'Mys Zhelaniya' underscores the significant nature of the cargo, which is widely believed to be destined to bolster Russia's 'African Corps' operations in the area. While the ship attempted to obscure its destination in the navigation systems, intelligence tracking and the recorded maritime route confirmed its arrival in Tobruk. Concurrently, another sanctioned vessel, the 'Sparta IV', was observed en route to the Syrian port of Tartus, with a strong likelihood that it was also transporting military equipment. Despite both vessels initially claiming the same destination, their paths took separate turns. Ownership of these ships speaks volumes about their roles in Russia’s military and energy strategies. The 'Sparta IV' is owned by SK-Yug, a subsidiary of the sanctioned Oboronlogistika, known for its support to the Russian Ministry of Defense. Meanwhile, the 'Mys Zhelaniya' belongs to Transstroy, a major construction firm also under sanctions, which plays a pivotal role in significant energy projects across Russia's Arctic and northern territories. For more detailed insights and photos, visit: https://militarnyi.com/en/news/sanctioned-russian-ship-mys-zhelaniya-brings-military-cargo-to-libya/

On January 9, 2023, a notable Russian naval convoy, featuring the cargo vessels 'MYS Zhelaniya' and 'Sparta IV', was reported sailing off the southern coast of Portugal. Official sources indicate that the convoy is en route to the Egyptian port of Said, under the protection of the destroyer 'Severomorsk'. While 'Sparta IV' typically announces its destination as an Egyptian port, its actual path may suggest a clandestine stop at the Syrian port of Tartus, where a significant Russian military base is established. Additionally, observations point to the 'MYS Zhelaniya' potentially expressing interest in making a stop in Libya. For more information, follow the link: https://militarnyi.com/en/news/two-cargo-ships-escorted-by-russian-destroyer-severomorsk-were-spotted-off-the-coast-of-portugal/

A significant Russian convoy has been spotted making its way into the Mediterranean Sea, following its transit through the English Channel at the turn of the year. The convoy includes the Russian-flagged cargo ships 'MYS Zhelaniya' and 'Sparta IV' (IMO: 9743033), which originated from Kaliningrad. These vessels are being escorted by the destroyer RFS 'Severomorsk' (pennant number 619), highlighting Moscow's strategic prioritization of this operation. The escorting of the convoy into the Mediterranean rather than just through the English Channel indicates Russia's keen interest in securing this maritime movement. The RFS 'Severomorsk' stands as Russia's most formidable surface combatant currently deployed in the Mediterranean area, and its involvement in this escort is noteworthy, as such a measure is not commonplace. Both cargo ships have Port Said listed as their destination, with an estimated arrival date of January 19, 2026. However, Port Said often serves as a temporary stop for vessels planning to transit the Suez Canal or engage in activities within the Eastern Mediterranean, and plans can change at a moment's notice. As of now, it remains uncertain if the convoy will head towards Egypt, the Levant, or another port in the Mediterranean. What is particularly striking about this operation is the presence of a high-end naval escort. In past years, similar logistical maneuvers involving Sparta-class vessels have not typically included an escort from a major naval combatant. The deployment of the 'Severomorsk' suggests a more cautious and militarized approach, likely in response to the rising tensions, intensified surveillance, and the increasing strategic importance of maritime supply routes connecting the Atlantic to the Mediterranean and beyond. The role of the 'Severomorsk' is far from ceremonial; assigning such a significant naval asset to escort duties reflects Russia's commitment to safeguarding critical logistical lines, despite the potential strain on its limited naval resources.

In a recent maritime transaction, a vessel has been sold to Russian buyers for an undisclosed amount. The specifics of the deal remain confidential, but it highlights the ongoing activity within the shipping industry.

In a dramatic maritime rescue that took place in April 2019, the container ship "BBC Orinoco" came to the aid of a distressed German sailor from the Leopard 40 catamaran named "Samsara." This incident unfolded approximately 200 miles southwest of the Bahamas during a fierce gale. The "Samsara," which had set out from the Bahamas just five days prior, had previously survived the wrath of Hurricane Irma after undergoing extensive repairs by its new owner, who intended to sail it back to Europe. On the fateful day in early April 2019, seizing a seemingly favorable weather opportunity, the skipper departed Georgetown, Bahamas, aiming for Bermuda. However, just days into the voyage, the conditions took a dangerous turn. An enormous wave, measuring nearly 10 meters, dismasted the vessel, leaving the crew in a precarious situation. A coastguard ship swiftly responded to the emergency, rescuing the crew member while the skipper opted to detach the mast and attempt to navigate towards safety using the ship's engine. Unfortunately, the weather worsened overnight, with winds howling up to 50 knots and waves between 6 to 8 meters high. The catamaran struggled to maintain its course amid the severe weather. Although water started to infiltrate the boat, the skipper was able to pump some out. In collaboration with the Coastguard, he altered his route to sail with the wind and waves behind him, hoping the storm would subside. The situation quickly deteriorated further when one of the engines failed, leaving the vessel helplessly adrift. As the "Samsara" took on more water, it was repeatedly struck by massive waves that threatened to capsize it. In response to the dire circumstances, the Coastguard requested assistance from the "BBC Orinoco," which came to the rescue. Just as the skipper abandoned his vessel, it succumbed to the sea and began to sink. This extraordinary event highlights the dangers faced by sailors and the vital role of maritime rescue operations in saving lives at sea. For more on this story, you can find a detailed report with photos here: https://voilesetvoiliers.ouest-france.fr/securite-en-mer/naufrage/sauve-in-extremis-apres-le-passage-d-irma-le-catamaran-restaure-coule-au-large-des-bahamas-b0c2bb54-76f7-11e9-8809-a3658dd41a18.

Early in the morning on November 11, 2010, at 6 a.m. local time, the cargo vessel 'BBC Orinoco' (IMO: 9366110), carrying a crew of 14, fell victim to a pirate hijacking approximately 450 miles off the coast of Mumbai while en route from Port Said to Singapore. The alarming situation prompted the Indian Navy to spring into action, dispatching the destroyer 'INS Delhi' and the stealth corvette 'INS Veer.' Though it was estimated that their fleet would take 12 to 14 hours to reach the hijacked ship, the Indian Navy acted swiftly by sending an IL-38 SD aircraft to monitor the situation until naval assistance could arrive. By the morning of November 12, 'INS Delhi' successfully reached the distressed vessel. Marine Commandos executed a well-coordinated boarding operation from a Sea King helicopter. They managed to rescue the terrified crew members, who had taken refuge in the engine room and steering compartment during the terrifying ordeal. The helicopter provided crucial airborne fire support, ensuring the safety of the operation. In a prelude to the incident, the crew had been in contact with agents at UKMTO Dubai prior to their capture, who alerted the Indian Navy, prompting the rapid response. Remarkably, the pirates fled without causing damage to the 'BBC Orinoco' or harming its crew. Tools left on board, including a crowbar and knives, indicated the pirates' hasty retreat. Fortunately, the vessel, which is chartered by Beluga Shipping with a diverse crew of five Ukrainians and nine Filipinos, was able to resume its journey safely afterward.