A vessel suspected of transporting nuclear reactor components to North Korea, the Ursa Major, encountered a series of explosions and sank in the Mediterranean Sea near Spain. The incident, which occurred on December 23, 2024, involved the ship suffering three explosions on its starboard side, as per an investigation by CNN referencing Spanish authorities and insider sources.
The ship was believed to be carrying parts for two submarine nuclear reactors destined for Rason in North Korea. This event occurred shortly after North Korean troops were sent to aid Russia in the conflict with Ukraine. The Russian captain of the Ursa Major allegedly disclosed to investigators that the cargo included components resembling those used in submarine reactors.
Initially, the captain claimed the cargo consisted of “manhole covers” but later admitted its true nature following interrogation. Departing from St. Petersburg with a public manifest listing benign items, the vessel was supposedly headed for Vladivostok. Questions arose about why Russia opted for sea transport over its rail network for such a limited cargo.
Accompanied by two Russian military vessels, the ship was being escorted through European waters before the tragic turn of events. The vessel veered off course, reported explosions, resulting in casualties, and was found with containers carrying miscellaneous items. Spanish authorities inspected the ship, revealing damage consistent with a high-speed torpedo or explosive device.
Subsequent investigations led to further explosions near the wreckage site, prompting speculation of a targeted attack. The involvement of a suspected Russian spy ship and aerial surveillance heightened the mystery surrounding the incident. Security officials labeled the event as “strange,” with no definitive explanation provided for the explosions or Russia’s reaction.
