Russian authorities proposed installing machine guns and mobile missile launchers on bulk carriers at shipowners’ expense

Russian authorities proposed installing machine guns and mobile missile launchers on bulk carriers at shipowners’ expense

Russian officials are discussing the possibility of installing machine guns and mobile missile launchers on bulk carriers transporting grain across the Sea of Azov to protect them from attacks by Ukrainian drones.

According to documents obtained by Bloomberg, one plan under consideration would have ships on the first section of the route accompanied by military personnel armed with Kalashnikov assault rifles. After passing through the Kerch Strait, they would leave the ships with the weapons.

A plan is also being discussed for bulk carriers to move between the Sea of Azov and the Black Sea under convoy by military boats. At the same time, the costs of reinforcing the ships and providing military escort are being proposed to be imposed on traders and shipowners.

Some carriers and market participants doubt the effectiveness of these measures, including because they would be extremely expensive. Previously, armed guards were spotted on tankers of the so-called shadow fleet. Ukraine attacked them as well.

@meduzalive