A Routine Encounter with Unsettling Undertones
Last weekend, the French fishing trawler Belenos crew encountered an unexpected and unsettling moment while navigating near Guernsey. A Russian Kilo-class attack submarine surfaced within visible range, prompting immediate attention and speculation.
The incident occurred off the coast of Finistère, where the submarine Belenos was operating. The submarine was reportedly on its way from Russia’s naval base in Syria to its home port and was accompanied by the French Navy frigate Normandie. According to Premar Atlantique, this movement was routine and closely monitored by French authorities, which posed no immediate threat.
Captured on Camera
The submarine’s proximity allowed the trawler’s crew to capture detailed images of its hull and conning tower. While the exact identity of the submarine remains classified, its design and features suggest it belongs to the Kilo class, a class known for its stealth and diesel-electric propulsion.
Following standard protocol, the UK Royal Navy was responsible for tracking the submarine as it continued its northbound transit through the English Channel. The Royal Navy typically discloses the identities of such vessels days after their passage.
Safety Concerns and Historical Context
Although no danger was reported, the incident reignited concerns about maritime safety during submarine surfacing operations. History has shown that such maneuvers can be hazardous. One of the most tragic examples is the 2001 collision between the USS Greeneville and the Japanese training ship Ehime Maru, which resulted in nine fatalities.
This recent encounter reminds us of the delicate balance between routine military operations and the safety of civilian maritime traffic.
The Maritime-Hub News Network
