Monitoring the “Jakob Grebelsky”

This afternoon, the Russian Navy tug “Jakob Grebelsky” (MB-119) is transiting the Strait of Sicily, heading east at a speed of approximately 11 knots.

The vessel entered the Mediterranean in early July together with the Kilo-class submarine Novorossiysk.

It is not currently confirmed whether the two ships are sailing together, but given that they have been traveling in parallel since their departure from Saint Petersburg, it is reasonable to assume they are part of the same mission.

Since the Russian Navy lost access to its support base in Tartus last December, this marks the second time a submarine, escorted by a tug, has entered the Mediterranean. The previous instance appeared to be more of a demonstrative cruise, as the lack of a logistical base significantly limits the operational capabilities and endurance of a submarine so far from home waters.

This afternoon, the MB-119’s passage was monitored by an Italian Air Force ATR P-72A (reg. MM62281) that took off from Sigonella Air Base and conducted several orbits over the area where the tug was sailing.