German naval drones will be able to monitor Russia’s “shadow fleet” in the Baltic Sea

Marine drones manufactured by the German defense company Stark are equipped with a system that can detect suspicious vessels even if their transponders are turned off.

European countries are already studying Ukraine’s experience in detecting Russian oil tankers using drones, the “Defense” reported in the Stark press service.

Vanta 6 drones will be able to detect vessels of the so-called “shadow fleet”. In particular, the marine drone is equipped with artificial intelligence, satellite analysis and maritime monitoring systems.

“The system is able to detect suspicious vessels even if their transponders are turned off. It analyzes satellite data, compares them with maritime traffic signals and can accompany targets for a long time, effectively providing continuous monitoring,” the German company said.

Marine drones will be able to perform maritime surveillance and control functions instead of military personnel. In addition, the drones have modifications with platforms for launching UAVs and are potentially capable of performing combat missions.

“The drone can be used to monitor the Russian “shadow fleet” in the Baltic Sea and help authorities gain better control over the maritime situation to enhance regional security and deterrence,” the company emphasized.

The Vanta naval drone has a declared range of 910 nautical miles, which is about 1,700 kilometers. The drone’s speed reaches more than 45 nautical knots (about 83 kilometers per hour), and the board can carry up to 200 kilograms of payload with a total weight of the board of 2.5 tons.

Recall that in early April 2026, Sweden detained a tanker of the Russian “shadow fleet” in the Baltic Sea, which is suspected of causing an oil spill.