Russia suspected of spying on nuclear arsenals in Europe. Spy drones were launched from shadow fleet ships

Russia is suspected of spying on nuclear arsenals in Europe. Spy drones were launched from shadow fleet ships

Russia monitored nuclear facilities in European countries for several years, using drones launched from shadow fleet ships for surveillance. Experts at the International Institute for Strategic Studies reached that conclusion.

Since the end of 2024, 144 incidents involving spy drones have been recorded in more than 10 European countries. At the same time, not once were such drones shot down, the study says.

The drones were spotted, among other places, near British Air Force bases and U.S. Air Force bases in the United Kingdom. At the end of November, drones were seen near RAF Lakenheath in the UK. In July 2025, a U.S. nuclear arsenal was deployed at that base.

The drones, experts believe, were launched from the ships Seasons 1 or Hav Dolphin, which were at sea near the military facilities close to where the drones were spotted. Both vessels belong to the shadow fleet Russia uses to transport oil in обход sanctions.

@meduzalive