100kg of Explosives Neutralized from Maritime Drone Found Off Lefkada Coast
Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A 6-meter-long maritime drone carrying 100 kilograms of explosives was discovered by fishermen near Lefkada, Greece.
- Authorities safely neutralized the explosives in a controlled detonation.
- An investigation is underway to determine the drone's origin, purpose, and ownership.
A startling discovery off the coast of Lefkada has sent ripples of concern and raised numerous questions among Greek authorities and the public. Fishermen stumbled upon a 6-meter-long maritime drone near the Kavos tis Kyras passage, an object that turned out to be equipped with a significant payload: 100 kilograms of explosives.
It had a high-resolution camera in the center and two panels that likely relate to GPS. It was black, low, about one meter above the sea surface, so as not to be easily detected at night.
The immediate response was swift and decisive. The explosives were safely neutralized through a controlled detonation in the sea area of Astakos, averting a potential disaster. The drone itself, described as autonomous with GPS navigation and a high-resolution camera, was initially towed to the local port before being moved for further examination.
Stathis Vasilatos, president of the Lefkada port workers, provided crucial details, noting the drone's low profile and dark color, designed for stealth. He suggested that a loss of GPS signal or adverse weather conditions might have caused the drone to drift uncontrollably towards the shore. The fact that two of its three front sensors were damaged indicates it likely collided with something, further complicating its trajectory.
It had three sensors in front. Two were broken when we found it, which indicates that it probably collided and lost its orientation.
The investigation is now focused on uncovering the drone's origins, its intended mission, and who is responsible for deploying it. Experts from the Armed Forces and security services are reportedly involved, underscoring the seriousness with which this incident is being treated. The presence of such a device, laden with explosives, in Greek waters is a matter of significant national security interest, and the answers sought will be critical in understanding the potential threats it represents.
There was fear because it was an object of unknown origin. However, the fishermen acted correctly and immediately informed the authorities.
Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.