Complex operation underway to recover sunken tugboat Astana off Midia Port

Specialized teams from Romania and Turkey are conducting a difficult operation to salvage the tugboat Astana from the Black Sea floor. The vessel sank in March off Midia Port, resulting in the deaths of five Romanian sailors. This complex recovery is considered one of the most challenging naval salvage operations in recent years along the Romanian coast.

The tugboat lies at a depth of approximately 26 meters. The operation requires specialized teams and heavy equipment to bring the vessel to the surface. Tragically, the bodies of three missing sailors are still trapped inside the wreck. Rescuers initially recovered two bodies after the sinking, but the other three remained inside the ship.

A Turkish company specializing in naval rescue and recovery operations has been involved in preparing the intervention. Port sources indicate that specialists have conducted hundreds of dives to inspect the tugboat's compartments and determine the safest recovery method. To access certain areas of the wreck, intervention teams have had to cut parts of the ship's structure.

The accident occurred on March 18 during a maneuver to assist a tanker. The tugboat Astana reportedly lost propulsion in rough seas, leading to its capsizing and sinking within minutes. Authorities have launched an investigation into the exact circumstances of the accident. The recovery operation is ongoing, and further information is expected once the vessel is brought to the surface, potentially aiding in the identification and recovery of the remaining three sailors.