The Pizhma: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On December 15, 2023, the sanctioned Russian freighter 'Pizhma' made its way through the Strait of Gibraltar, heading into the Atlantic Ocean. This vessel has come under scrutiny from the United States due to suspicions surrounding its involvement in illicit operations between the Black Sea and the Syrian coast. Insights from the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) suggest that the 'Pizhma' may have been repurposed by Russian authorities to execute various strategic missions. Recent Automatic Identification System (AIS) data reveals that the ship traveled from Novorossiysk to Alexandria, Egypt, during the period of May 31 to June 7. Following this journey, it seemingly left Alexandria on June 9 and returned to Novorossiysk just before June 15. Intriguingly, satellite imagery captured at the Novorossiysk naval base indicates that the 'Pizhma' was loaded with unidentified cargo from June 8 to June 11, raising concerns about possible AIS spoofing—a tactic often used by vessels engaged in dubious operations. The fact that the 'Pizhma' docked at a Russian military facility, employed deceptive location reporting, and received naval escort on its subsequent sail to Tartus implies it is potentially being utilized for military advantages or other covert activities that the Russian government prefers to keep under wraps, according to the CSIS report.

On June 19, 2023, the merchant vessel 'Pizhma' successfully rescued 68 migrants from the distressed Greek yacht 'Avalon' near the island of Kalymnos. The 'Avalon' was navigating from Turkey when it encountered trouble, prompting an urgent call for assistance. The operation was also supported by the Russian warship 'Admiral Gorshkov,' which responded to the distress signal during the night. Following the rescue, all migrants were safely transported to the nearby island of Leros.