Russian-Linked Tanker Eagle S Detained by Finland Is Suspected of Spying and Damaging Estlink 2 Cable

The Russian-linked tanker Eagle S, which was detained by Finnish authorities after being suspected of damaging the Finnish-Estonian Estlink 2 undersea cable, was reportedly equipped with advanced transmitting and receiving devices to serve as a spy ship for Russian operations, according to Lloyd's List on December 27.

Sources close to the investigation disclosed that listening and recording devices were on board the Eagle S. These devices, allegedly loaded in large suitcases during port calls in Türkiye and Russia, were operated by Russian, Turkish, and Indian radio officers. The equipment is believed to have been used to intercept NATO naval and aircraft frequencies.

"They monitored all NATO ships and aircraft, transmitting the data for analysis in Russia," a source stated.

According to Lloyd's List, the Eagle S deliberately dragged its anchor over the Estlink 2 cable, causing extensive damage. Finnish police believe this also affected three additional undersea cables in the region.

The tanker is identified as part of Russia’s shadow fleet—a network of vessels with obscure ownership structures meant to conceal their transportation of sanctioned Russian oil and wet cargo since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

A source familiar with the matter described the equipment on board as highly unusual for a commercial ship.

"The high-tech devices consumed excessive amounts of power, causing repeated blackouts on the vessel," the source said.

Earlier this year, Lloyd’s List reported significant safety deficiencies on the Eagle S, including poor maintenance and non-compliance with international maritime regulations.

"This ship not only posed environmental and crew safety risks but also operated with numerous regulatory violations," stated the report.

Previously, the Finnish Coast Guard intercepted and boarded the Russian vessel Eagle S within Finnish waters following suspicions of its involvement in an attack on the Estlink 2 undersea power cable. The ship’s captain is the primary suspect in the incident.