Turkish cargo ship attacked by drone in Black Sea, one crew member missing

One crew member has been reported missing after the cargo ship M/V RMS TEAM, operated by Turkish shipping company Akkon Lines, was targeted by a drone attack in the Black Sea.

“It is with deep regret that we inform you that the M/V RMS TEAM suffered a drone attack while sailing in the Black Sea,” read an official statement from the ship’s operator released on Friday (21/8).

The attack triggered a fire in the accommodation area and engine room, which subsequently spread to the container cargo storage area. A total of 11 crew members were rescued by a vessel passing near the scene.

Meanwhile, one crew member has been reported missing. The operator stated that the rescue team has received the missing person report and is currently conducting a search.

“Based on information received to date, the vessel and all its cargo are likely to be a total loss,” the statement added.

Throughout this summer, a number of attacks have been recorded in the region. Ukraine is reported to have been steadily increasing the intensity of its attacks on transport and logistics infrastructure as well as civilian vessels operating in the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea.

The attacks have targeted ships carrying agricultural commodities, including grain and sunflower oil.

This is not the first time a Turkish vessel has been targeted.

In response, the Turkish government has proposed to both the Russian and Ukrainian governments the immediate establishment of a mechanism to prevent further attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea.