Panama-flagged LPG tanker Gas Nero struck by drone in Black Sea after rescue operation

Türkiye's General Directorate of Maritime Affairs reported the successful evacuation of the injured seafarers of the LNG tanker Gas Aura from the LPG tanker Gas Nero before the rescue vessel itself came under a drone attack in the Black Sea.

Vessel GAS NERO, image credit: Keith Edney

According to the authority, the Panama-flagged LPG tanker Gas Aura was struck by a drone near Kavkaz, Russia, on 15 July, injuring two Filipino crew and taken aboard another Panama-flagged LPG tanker Gas Nero.

On 16 July, Gas Nero safely transferred the injured seafarers to a Turkish Coast Guard helicopter off Sinop, completing the medical evacuation. Gas Nero resumed its voyage through Black Sea but was hit by a drone that triggered fire in one of the forward tanks. The tanker requested assistance, and a firefighting tug was dispatched under the coordination of Turkey's Samsun Port Authority.

Despite the attack, Gas Nero continued its voyage and arrived in Trabzon, Turkey, for repairs on 17 July.