The Captain of a Marshall Islands-flagged Bulk Carrier recently reported the sighting of two potential Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) while the ship was approximately 12NM Southwest of Al Mukha, Yemen.
Upon the initial sighting of the first aerial object, the Captain executed evasive actions, including swift changes in course. A second aerial object was then observed approaching the vessel from the direction of the mainland, but it soon left the vicinity. After about ten minutes, the first aerial object also vanished from sight.
The vessel and her crew are reported safe, and the Bulk Carrier is proceeding with her journey.
This incident occurred only two days after an attack on another Marshall Islands-flagged Bulk Carrier, STAR IRIS, in the same area approximately 40NM South of Al Mukha. That vessel was attacked by two missiles and sustained minor damage as a result.
Vessels are advised to proceed with caution and report any suspicious activities to the UKMTO.
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