UK conducts first VBSS interdiction of Russian 'shadow fleet' tanker

The UK carried out its first boarding/interdiction (VBSS) of a Russian 'shadow fleet' oil tanker in international waters, using an integrated package of Royal Marines/NCA teams supported by multiple helicopters, a P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, and RN surface escorts in coordination with France. The novelty is the operational adoption of a new sanctions-enforcement maritime interdiction tactic against shadow-fleet shipping, signaling a shift from monitoring to direct action.