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Showing posts from April, 2024

Mount Ruang Erupts Again in Indonesia, Triggering Massive Pyroclastic Flow and 20,000-Foot Ash Plume

Mount Ruang, located on the island of Sangihe in Indonesia, erupted twice in the early hours of Tuesday, April 30, 2024, generating a massive pyroclastic flow and an ash plume that reached over 20,000 feet (6,100 meters) high. The eruption prompted authorities to raise the alert level to its highest and evacuate people living within a 6-km radius of the volcano. The first eruption occurred at 2:15 a.m. local time on Tuesday morning , followed by a second, even more powerful one at 8:50 a.m. The eruption produced a pyroclastic flow that ravaged the volcano's flanks and reached the sea. A dense, black ash plume rose into the atmosphere, darkening the sky and causing ash to fall on nearby communities. The eruption has led to the closure of Manado airport , which is located about 100 km from the volcano. Authorities have warned that ashfall could pose a hazard to air navigation and have advised residents to stay indoors and wear masks if they must go outside. Mount Ruang is an active s

Houthi Missile and Drone Attack Thwarted in Red Sea

On April 29, between 10:00 a.m. and 5:20 p.m. (Sanaa time), Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists launched three anti-ship ballistic missiles (ASBM) and three unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from Yemen into the Red Sea, targeting the Malta-flagged, Greece-owned vessel MV Cyclades. Initial reports indicate that there were no injuries, and the ship was able to continue on its journey. Earlier in the day, at 7:49 a.m., U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully intercepted and destroyed one Houthi-launched airborne UAV that was on a flight path towards the USS Philippine Sea and USS Laboon in the Red Sea. There were no reports of injuries or damages to U.S., coalition, or merchant vessels. The U.S. military determined that the UAV posed an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant ships in the region.

US Coast Guard Seeks Help Locating Empty Life Raft

The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a request for vessels in the vicinity of position 19-48.45N 074-11.23W to be on the lookout for an unoccupied red, six-person SurvivalTec life raft adrift at sea. The life raft, identified by serial number 5085710500979, lot number 12/21-5, and part number 50857002, was reported adrift with no one on board. Weather Conditions in the Area: East winds at 20 knots with gusts up to 28 knots (37 km/h to 52 km/h) Choppy seas with waves up to 1.5 meters (5 feet) Scattered thunderstorms Anyone with information on the life raft's location is urged to contact the U.S. Coast Guard.

Explosion Near Merchant Vessel Reported Off the Coast of Yemen

 The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has announced that it received a report of an incident occurring 54 nautical miles northwest of Al Mukha, Yemen. According to UKMTO's Update 001, the explosion took place in close proximity to a Merchant Vessel, but the vessel and its crew are reported safe. The exact cause of the explosion remains unclear at this time, and further investigations are underway. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers and risks in the region, particularly for maritime activities.

Attack on Merchant Vessel off Yemen Coast (Update)

 A merchant vessel has been the target of an explosive attack off the coast of Yemen, northwest of Al Mukha. No damage to the vessel or crew has been reported. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the explosion occurred in the vicinity of the merchant vessel at 07:02 UTC today, April 29, 2024. The alarm was raised by the company's security officer. Authorities are investigating the incident. UKMTO recommends that all vessels navigate with caution in the area and report any suspicious activity. https://www.ukmto.org/

US Central Command Successfully Engages Five Aerial Threats Over Red Sea

In the early hours of April 28, between 1:48 and 2:27 a.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) successfully engaged five airborne unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) over the Red Sea. The decision to counter these UAVs was made upon determining that they posed an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels operating in the region.

Two Attacks on Vessel Near Al Mukha, Yemen

 The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported an incident involving a vessel that was the target of two attacks in close proximity to Al Mukha, Yemen. The first attack resulted in an explosion near the vessel, which was felt by the crew on board. The second attack is believed to have involved two missiles that caused damage to the vessel. The Master of the vessel reported the incident, and authorities are currently investigating the details of the attacks. Vessels are advised to exercise caution when transiting through the area and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO. This latest incident highlights the ongoing risks and threats faced by vessels operating in the region. It is essential that all mariners remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety and security.

Suspicious Explosion Near Merchant Vessel East Southeast of Djibouti Port

According to UKMTO's update, the master of a merchant vessel reported an explosion in the water at a distance from the ship. While there were no reports of injuries or damage to the vessel, the cause of the explosion is still unknown. Authorities are currently investigating the incident and have advised vessels to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO. United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has released a report about a suspicious incident that occurred 72 nautical miles east southeast off the port of Djibouti. The incident, which took place in international waters, has raised concerns among maritime authorities and the shipping community. The incident highlights the importance of vigilance and situational awareness for all vessels operating in international waters. Mariners are reminded to maintain a heightened state of awareness, particularly in regions known for piracy and other forms of maritime crime.

Distress Call Issued for Missing Sailing Yacht "ILAN7" in Ionian Sea

Issued by Inmarsat: 2024-04-23 12:45:02 Z The Italian Coast Guard is seeking assistance from all vessels transiting in the Ionian Sea to locate the missing sailing yacht "ILAN7". Details of the missing yacht: Name: ILAN7 Flag: Great Britain (UK) MMSI: 232029740 Callsign: MIBL9 Description: White with a blue underline, 14 meters long with a maximum width of 4 meters. Last known position: Latitude 37° 52.9282 N, Longitude 18° 22.9029 E (communicated on April 21, 2024). Departed from: Malta on April 11, 2024. Destination: Preveza, Greece. Number of people on board: One. Weather conditions in the search area: Winds up to 28 knots with gusts up to 38 knots. Waves up to 3.5 meters. All vessels in the Ionian Sea are requested to: Maintain a sharp lookout for the yacht "ILAN7". Report any sightings or information to the Italian Coast Guard at the following numbers: IMRCC Rome: Phone: +39 06 5924145 or +39 06 59084409 Fax: +39 06 5922737 or +39 06 59084793 Inmarsat C: 424744

Distress Situation in the Mediterranean Sea

UPDATE 23/04/24: The two ships involved in a maritime accident off the coast of Sicily have arrived safely in #Augusta, escorted by patrol boats and monitored by #CoastGuard aircraft. There were no consequences for the crews or damage to the marine environment. Source: Italian Coast Guard UPDATE 22/04/24: Vessels Involved in Collision Identified According to maritime traffic data, one of the vessels involved in the collision appears to be the Hayriye Ana, which departed Istanbul last Friday and was heading to La Coruña, Spain. The Portuguese container ship Ef Olivia, which departed Hamburg two weeks ago and was bound for the port of Augusta, Italy, where it was due to arrive today, is also reported to be in the area. At this time, both ships are afloat and appear to be seaworthy despite the impact, moving slowly towards the Sicilian coast to receive the necessary assistance.   URGENT - Ships in the Area of Latitude 36° 27' North and Longitude 15° 15' East The Italian Coas

Medical Evacuation Needed for Sailor on Yacht Nabucco

  A medical evacuation request was received by RCC Norfolk on behalf of MRCC Bremen for a 24-year-old female sailor onboard the German flagged sailing yacht Nabucco. The yacht's current position is reported at 27-29.57N 063-08.36W. RCC Norfolk is requesting any nearby vessels to establish communication with Nabucco to assess the situation and provide medical support or evaluation if medical personnel are available onboard. All communication regarding this request should be directed to RCC Norfolk. Current weather conditions in the area: Wind: 2-4 knots Wave height: 1.4 meters Visibility: Excellent Yacht details: Name: Nabucco Flag: Germany IMO-MMSI: 211772540 Call sign: DC9507 AIS transponder class: Class B Vessel type: Sailing yacht Dimensions: 15 meters length / 5 meters maximum width

Distress Call Issued for Spanish Sailor in Black Sailing Vessel "Black Bit"

Update: The Italian Coast Guard rescued the sailor. Following a satellite alert received yesterday through the COSPAS system managed with the Civil Protection Department, which located him about 110 miles off the Calabrian coast, an aircraft took off from the Guardia Costiera airbase in #Catania and a patrol boat departed from #RoccellaJonica - in addition to two merchant ships diverted to the area - tracked down the boat of the lone Spanish sailor, who was reached and rescued during the night, Issued: April 19, 2024, 1:30 PM UTC From IMRCC Rome - Italian Coast Guard Urgency: Distress Summary: The Italian Coast Guard (IMRCC Rome) has issued a distress call for a Spanish sailor who departed Crete for Sicily on April 11th aboard a black sailing vessel named "Black Bit." Details: The sailor's nationality is Spanish. The vessel's name is "Black Bit." The vessel's color is black. The departure date from Crete was April 11th, 2024. The destination was Si

Indonesia: Mount Ruang Erupts, Triggering Evacuations and Tsunami Warning

  April 18, 2024 - Mount Ruang, a volcano located on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia, erupted this morning, triggering a series of dramatic events. The eruption sent a plume of ash 3 kilometers high into the atmosphere, blanketing the surrounding area and darkening the sky. Authorities have evacuated over 11,000 people who live near the volcano, fearing a possible collapse of the volcanic cone that could trigger a tsunami. Manado's international airport has been closed due to volcanic ash reaching the area. The eruption also produced a series of lightning bolts within the ash cloud, due to the static electricity generated by the friction of particles. The situation is still evolving and authorities are continuing to monitor the volcano's activity. Residents in the area are advised to follow the instructions of the authorities and stay informed about the latest updates.

Distress Call Issued for Greek Yacht Eros II in Ionian Sea

An Inmarsat message was received today, April 17th, 2024, at 19:26:49 UTC from the Italian Coast Guard (IMRCC Rome) regarding a missing Greek yacht named Eros II. The information has been combined with an earlier message from the Joint Rescue Coordination Center Piraeus/Greece (JRCC Piraeus) received at 16:39:55 UTC. Eros II departed Corfu, Greece, on April 14th, 2024, and was headed towards Catania, Italy. It is now overdue and considered to be in a difficult situation. The yacht is described as a 12-meter vessel with a white hull and a blue mast. Its MMSI number is 239590900. There is one person on board, a 70-year-old Greek national. Current weather conditions in the area: Northwesterly winds at 23 knots with gusts up to 31 knots Good visibility 2-meter waves The Italian Coast Guard and the Greek Joint Rescue Coordination Center are requesting all vessels currently transiting the Ionian Sea to be on the lookout for Eros II and to report any sightings or relevant information. If you

USCENTCOM Successfully Engages Two Houthi-Controlled UAVs in Yemen

 On April 16, 2024, between 10:50 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully engaged two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist-controlled areas in Yemen. The engagement was determined to be necessary after it was established that the UAVs posed an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels in the region. No injuries or damage were reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships as a result of the engagement.

Cargo Ship in Distress After Fire or Explosion

  Fort-de-France, Martinique [April 15, 2024] - An undetermined distress alert was received on April 15th, 2024, from the Liberian cargo ship GSL Arcadia. The MRCC Fort-de-France, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Center responsible for the area, is coordinating the response. The GSL Arcadia, a 277-meter container ship, issued a distress call indicating a fire or explosion on board. The ship's last reported position was at 08 degrees 30.85 north and 51 degrees 31.24 west, approximately 83 nautical miles northeast of Trinidad and Tobago. The MRCC Fort-de-France is requesting all vessels in the vicinity of the GSL Arcadia to establish contact with the ship and report any information to them. The MRCC can be contacted by the following methods: Phone: +596 596 70 92 92 Telex: (42) 912008 Fax: +596 596 63 24 50 INM C: 422 799 024 Email: ANTILLES@MRCCFR.EU Current weather conditions in the area: Wind: West northwesterly at 17 knots with gusts up to 22 knots Waves: Up to 2.6 meters (8.5 f

Mayday Call Issued from Ship GLOBAL PEACE in Red Sea

Last Updated: April 15, 2024 A distress call (Mayday) has been issued by a vessel named "GLOBAL PEACE" with MMSI number 518100969. The call was relayed by Istanbul Radio on High Frequency (HF) radio frequency 12577 kHz. Details of the Distress Call: Vessel Name: GLOBAL PEACE MMSI: 518100969 Last Known Position: Red Sea (exact coordinates not available) Current Voyage Plan: Departed Al Mukalla on April 15, 2024, at 14:05 UTC+3 and is currently en route to Mukalla. Reason for Mayday: Not yet reported Additional Information: The vessel's latest AIS data indicates that it is currently in the Red Sea. No further information regarding the nature of the distress has been received. Authorities: Istanbul Radio and relevant maritime authorities in the region have been notified of the distress call. A search and rescue operation is likely to be initiated. Updates: We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.

Houthi Missile Launch and Destruction of UAVs in Yemen: A Red Sea Update

 On April 13, at approximately 7:00 p.m. (Sanaa time), Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists launched an anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) toward the Gulf of Aden from a Houthi-controlled area in Yemen. No injuries or damage were reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships as a result of this attack. Following this incident, between 4:00 a.m. and 9:15 p.m. (Sanaa time) on April 14, CENTCOM forces successfully destroyed four uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. These actions were taken in self-defense, as it was determined that the UAVs presented an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels in the region.

Man Overboard in the Atlantic Ocean - Search and Rescue Operation Request

 A distress signal has been issued for a man overboard in the Atlantic Ocean, west of Ponta de Gravata. The last known position of the individual was at 08-54.12s 034-50.55w on April 24th, 2024.  The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has requested nearby vessels to assist in the search and rescue operation. All ships in the vicinity are urged to search, sight, assist, and report any information that may help locate the person in distress. This incident serves as a critical reminder for all mariners to prioritize safety measures and be prepared for emergencies while at sea.

Distress Call Issued for Crew Member Overboard Near South Africa

  Last Updated: April 15, 2024 A distress call (MAYDAY) has been relayed by Cape Town Radio on behalf of the cargo ship "KAVO PERDIKA" (call sign V7A2850). Details of the Distress Call: Vessel: KAVO PERDIKA (MMSI: 538008865, IMO: 9584889) Flag: Marshall Islands Vessel Type: Bulk Carrier Position: 22° 18.368’ South, 038° 05.485’ East Emergency: One crew member reported overboard Weather Conditions in the Area: Southerly winds at 15-18 knots Partly cloudy skies Waves up to 2.7 meters (9 feet) Call to Action: All vessels in the vicinity of the KAVO PERDIKA are urged to assist in the search for the missing crew member. If you are able to help, please contact Cape Town Radio via High Frequency (HF) radio.

Strong Winds Warning Issued for Western Mediterranean Sea

Issued: April 15, 2024 French weather service Meteo-France has issued a warning for strong winds affecting several areas of the Western Mediterranean Sea. A low-pressure system moving eastward is expected to bring gusty conditions starting later today, April 15th. Affected Areas and Timing: Lion:  Northwesterly winds with severe gusts, expected from 15:21 UTC on April 15th to at least 12:00 UTC on April 16th. Provence:  Westerly or northwesterly winds with severe gusts, expected from 15:21 UTC on April 15th to at least 12:00 UTC on April 16th. South of Liguria:  Westerly or southwesterly winds with severe gusts, expected from 16:00 UTC on April 16th to at least 12:00 UTC on April 16th. North of Corsica:  Westerly or southwesterly winds with severe gusts, reaching gale force (force 8 on the Beaufort scale) at times in the far northeast during the morning. This is expected from 16:00 UTC on April 16th to at least 12:00 UTC on April 16th. Maddalena Archipelago:  Westerly or southwesterly

Indian Coast Guard Seeks Assistance in Finding Missing Fisherman

April 14, 2024 23:10 UTC The Indian Coast Guard (MRCC Mumbai) has issued a distress message regarding a missing fisherman, Thiru Chritin, aged 51, from the Indian fishing boat (IFB) Felaxiya (IND-TN-15-MM-5386). Details of the Missing Fisherman: Name: Thiru Chritin Age: 51 Last Seen Wearing: Black and Blue T-shirt and Dhoti Last Known Position: 21 Deg 14 Min N 068 Deg 29 E Weather Conditions: Current: Light sea with wind speeds of 10 knots from the Northeast. Forecast: Winds are expected to increase to 16 knots by the afternoon of April 15th. Call to Action: Mariners in the area are requested to be on the lookout for Thiru Chritin and to provide assistance if he is spotted. Please contact MRCC Mumbai

Vessel Seized Near Fujairah, UAE - UKMTO Advises Caution in the Region

 In an update to a previous advisory, United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported that a vessel has been seized by regional authorities 50 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates. The initial report of a suspicious incident in the area prompted UKMTO to advise vessels to exercise caution and report any unusual activities. With this new development, UKMTO reiterates its call for vigilance among ships transiting through the region. Mariners are strongly encouraged to maintain open communication channels, adhere to best practices for navigational safety and security, and promptly report any suspicious activities to UKMTO. As further details regarding this incident emerge, it is crucial for the maritime community to stay informed and up-to-date on the situation. This development underscores the importance of maintaining open communication channels and sharing information among stakeholders to ensure the safety and security of maritime operations in the

Search and Rescue Operation Underway for Fishing Vessel "One Love"

UPDATE: Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force Coast Guards contacted the vessel and the crew is safe. Vessel Missing West of Barbuda - Search in Progress A Mayday relay has been issued by MRCC Fort de France for the fishing vessel "One Love". The alert was received on the night of April 12, 2024. The vessel is an Antigua and Barbuda flagged vessel, 13 meters long, with 3 people on board. The vessel departed Saint John's on April 10 for the fishing area west of Barbuda and has not returned as scheduled. Weather conditions in the area are adverse: rain, wind from the west-northwest at 24 knots with gusts up to 30 knots, and waves up to 3 meters high. Weather conditions are expected to remain stable in the coming hours. French maritime authorities are asking all vessels in the area to be vigilant and report any information to MRCC Fort-de-France. A search and rescue operation is underway to locate the fishing vessel "One Love" and its crew. Updates will follow. Anyo

CENTCOM Forces Successfully Intercept Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile Over Red Sea

  On April 11, United States Central Command (CENTCOM) forces successfully engaged and destroyed an anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) launched from Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist-controlled areas in Yemen. The ASBM posed an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels in the region. The engagement took place at approximately 1:00 p.m. (Sanaa time) over the Red Sea. No injuries or damage were reported on U.S., coalition, or commercial ships as a result of the incident.

US Central Command Successfully Engages Multiple Houthi-Launched UAVs in Red Sea and Gulf of Aden

On April 10, the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) reported that its forces had successfully engaged a total of eleven unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) launched from Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. The UAVs were launched in two separate incidents, with two being deployed over the Gulf of Aden and one over the Red Sea between 4:15 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. (Sanaa time). No injuries or damage were reported on U.S., coalition, or commercial ships as a result. Later that day, between approximately 7:50 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. (Sanaa time), USCENTCOM forces successfully engaged and destroyed eight additional UAVs in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen in self-defense. It was determined that these UAVs presented an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels operating in the region.

Merchant Vessel Reports Suspicious Approach in Arabian Sea

On April 9th, 2024, a merchant vessel traveling south in the Red Sea reported two skiffs approaching them approximately five miles away. The merchant vessel increased speed and altered course to create distance. After what appeared to be a 30-minute pursuit, the skiffs turned away. Increased Pirate Activity in Somalia This incident follows reports of at least 20 dhows being hijacked off the coast of Somalia since November 2023. In March 2024, EUNAVFOR's Operation Atalanta identified potential pirate camps along the Somali coastline between Cape Hafun and Garacad. Additionally, local sources report a rise in pirate activity between the Hobyo, Nugal, and Mudug regions. These developments suggest that several Pirate Action Groups (PAGs) may be operating in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, ranging from the Gulf of Aden north of Socotra to 800 nautical miles offshore Somalia. Somali pirates have successfully hijacked at least three commercial vessels since November 2023. Mariners are

USS Mason Successfully Intercepts Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile Launched from Yemen Over Gulf of Aden

 On April 9, 2024, at approximately 3:00 a.m. (Sanaa time), the USS Mason (DDG 87) and U.S. Central Command forces successfully engaged and destroyed an inbound anti-ship ballistic missile (ASBM) launched by Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists from Yemen over the Gulf of Aden. The ASBM was likely targeting the MV Yorktown, a U.S.-flagged, U.S.-owned vessel being escorted by the USS Laboon (DDG 58) and USS Mason (DDG 87). There were no injuries or damage reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships. U.S. Central Command determined that the ASBM presented an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels in the region. These actions are taken to protect freedom of navigation and ensure international waters remain safer and more secure for U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels.

US Central Command Successfully Engages and Destroys Houthi Air Defense System, Missile Launchers, and UAV in Yemen

 US Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces have successfully engaged and destroyed an air defense system with two missiles ready to launch, a ground control station in Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, and one unmanned aerial system launched by Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists from Yemen over the Red Sea. The operation took place between approximately 12:15 p.m. and 2:40 p.m. (Sanaa time) on April 8. In a separate incident, at approximately 8:00 a.m. (Sanaa time) on April 7, an anti-ship ballistic missile was launched from a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen toward the Gulf of Aden where a coalition ship was escorting M/V Hope Island, a Marshall Islands Flagged, U.K owned, Italian operated cargo ship. This marked the fifth observed missile launch against this coalition ship and M/V Hope Island. However, there were no injuries or damage reported by U.S., coalition, or commercial ships in either incident.

Disabled Sailing Vessel Gdynia in Need of Assistance

  Source: Inmarsat Received: April 8, 2024 (23:53 UTC) Alert Number: Eik LES 8-APR-2024 22:52:31 428158 U.S. Coast Guard Reported Distress The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a distress call for the disabled sailing vessel Gdynia with two people on board (POB). The vessel's location is reported at 25-01.35N 082-54.32W. Gdynia has mengalami kerusakan layar (Indonesian for "reported torn sails") and has lost steering capability. Weather Conditions Wind: East-southeast at 18 knots with gusts up to 26 knots Skies: Partly cloudy Wave height: 1.6 meters (5.2 feet) Conditions are expected to remain stable for the next few hours. Request for Assistance Anyone with information on the whereabouts of the Gdynia or who can offer assistance is urged to contact the RCC Miami.

NATO Launches Sea Shield 24 in the Black Sea

R omania, April 8, 2024 – NATO kicked off its multinational naval exercise Sea Shield 24 in the Black Sea today. The exercise, which will run until April 21, involves over 2,200 military personnel and 135 ships, aircraft, and vehicles from 12 Allied and partner countries. Hosted by the Romanian Navy, Sea Shield 24 is designed to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense on NATO's Eastern Flank. The exercise will focus on a variety of maritime warfare scenarios, including: Anti-submarine warfare Air defense Maritime interdiction Search and rescue Critical infrastructure protection Participating countries include: Bulgaria France Georgia Greece Italy Moldova Netherlands Poland Portugal Romania Turkey United Kingdom United States The exercise comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Black Sea region. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its ongoing support for separatists in eastern Ukraine have raised concerns about Moscow's intentions in the region. Sea Shie