Overview
- A cross-border investigation by NDR, WDR and Süddeutsche Zeitung, citing NATO-related sources, reports intelligence indicating devices were placed on the wreck to enable high‑precision navigation of underwater drones and robots.
- Western security assessments referenced in the reporting say Russian units trained for diving, recovery and seabed operations within the wreck’s restricted zone in recent years.
- Officials suspect concealed equipment there can capture distinctive acoustic signatures of NATO warships and submarines, with similar Russian-type hydroacoustic finds previously reported in the Baltic, including Lithuania.
- Estonia says it is monitoring developments with allies, while Finland confirmed a 2021–2024 pause in special protection for new inquiries and declined operational detail; Russia did not respond to media questions.
- The alleged activities align with capabilities of Russia’s deep-sea unit GUGI and with a procurement network that acquired Western undersea-surveillance technology, including systems linked to the Arctic “Harmonie” project.