Russian forces in the Mediterranean - Wk01/2025

Task Force Composition
As reported by OSINT at the morning of Jan-04

Weekly Brief
Russia no longer operates submarines in the Mediterranean as its sole submarine, the Improved Kilo class submarine Novorossiysk, departed the Mediterranean on January 2nd. The vessel was escorted by the fleet oiler Yelnya all the way until Bou Zadjar, Algeria. The Yelnya most likely refueled the submarine prior to its departure, ensuring that the vessel will be able to reach the Baltic Sea and rejoin the Baltic Fleet.

Additional Russian cargo vessels keep entering the Mediterranean, possibly for a maritime evacuation of Tartus.

Russian research vessel Yantar concluded a port visit in Alexandria, Egypt.

Daily Events
December 31
Russian ocean going tugboat Titan passed the Strait of Gibraltar and headed into the Mediterranean. The vessel is heading towards Suez [1].

January 01
Improved Kilo class submarine Novorossiysk was observed near the Algerian coast as it headed towards the Strait of Gibraltar [2].

January 02
Improved Kilo class submarine Novorossiysk reportedly passed the Strait of Gibraltar during the night of January 2nd to 3rd [2].

Fleet oiler Yelnya reportedly operated west of Bou Zadjar, Algeria [3].

January 03
Russian weapons runner Sparta II approached the Strait of Gibraltar and has entered the Mediterranean [4].

Fleet oiler Yelnya reportedly operated northwest of Bou Zadjar, Algeria [3].

Russian research vessel Yanter departed Alexandria during the morning, according to its AIS data.

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