HELSINKI, Finland (CHATNEWSTV) — The Russian-linked tanker Eagle S (IMO: 9329760), seized by Finnish authorities on December 25 for allegedly damaging an undersea cable, was equipped with sophisticated listening devices that enabled it to monitor NATO naval and aircraft activity, according to a report by Lloyd’s List.
The report described the equipment onboard the Cook Islands-flagged Eagle S as abnormal for a merchant vessel, consuming significant power and causing repeated blackouts. A source with knowledge of the vessel revealed that similar equipment was also installed on Swiftsea Rider (IMO: 9318539), a related tanker flagged in Honduras.
“These devices effectively transformed Eagle S into a spy ship for Russia,” the source, who provided confidential documents about the vessel, told Lloyd’s List.
Allegations of Espionage
The equipment, transported in “huge portable suitcases” and featuring Turkish and Russian keyboards, was reportedly used to monitor NATO radio frequencies. The devices were later offloaded in Russia for analysis, the source said.
“They were monitoring all NATO naval ships and aircraft,” the source claimed. “They had all details on them. They were just matching their frequencies.”
The source also alleged that Eagle S dropped sensor-type devices in the English Channel during a transit.
Cable Damage Sparks Investigation
The Eagle S was detained after it reportedly dragged its anchor across the Estlink 2 undersea cable, which disrupted electricity supply between Finland and Estonia. Finnish authorities stated the ship had slowed down and damaged three additional cables.
The incident marks the second time in two months that critical undersea cables between NATO allies have been damaged, escalating concerns over maritime infrastructure security in the Baltic Sea.
Links to Russia’s Dark Fleet
Both the Eagle S and Swiftsea Rider are part of a fleet of 26 aging, Russia-linked tankers with opaque ownership structures. These vessels are connected to three ship managers, two of which were sanctioned by the UK government for supporting Russia’s war efforts.
The Eagle S is operated under a bareboat charter by Eiger Shipping, the shipping arm of Russian oil trader Litasco. Its registered owner is listed as a single-ship company based in a Dubai luxury hotel, while the Mumbai-based ship manager, Peninsular Maritime India Private Limited, has proven unreachable.
Rising Geopolitical Tensions
The allegations highlight growing concerns over the use of commercial vessels for espionage and sabotage in the Baltic Sea, where NATO allies are on heightened alert.
“These claims underscore the increasing risks to Europe’s critical maritime infrastructure,” maritime security expert Lars Eriksson told AP. “Greater international cooperation is urgently needed to address these threats.”
Finnish authorities are continuing their investigation into the Eagle S and its activities in the region.
