The sinking of the Ursa Major has become one of the most discussed maritime security cases in Europe. The Russian cargo vessel disappeared in the Mediterranean after a sequence of explosions near Spain in December 2024. Since then, investigators, military analysts, and intelligence agencies have tried to explain what happened.
The CNN investigation suggested the vessel may have suffered damage from an external attack, possibly involving a torpedo. The report also raised questions about the ship’s cargo and its final destination.
Ursa Major: What Happened Before the Sinking
MV Ursa Major left Saint Petersburg on December 11, 2024. Officially, the ship headed toward Vladivostok through the Suez Canal route. According to Russian logistics statements, the vessel carried heavy industrial cargo, including large crane equipment and components linked to Arctic infrastructure projects.
The vessel belonged to Oboronlogistika, a Russian state-linked logistics operator involved in military transportation. Western governments had already sanctioned the ship because of its previous activity connected to Russian defense logistics.
Satellite tracking later showed unusual movement patterns while the vessel crossed waters between Spain and Algeria. On December 22, the ship suddenly reduced speed to nearly one knot. Reports from Russian media mentioned an engine room explosion during that stage of the voyage.
By December 23, distress signals reached Spanish maritime rescue services. Rescue footage reviewed by CNN reportedly showed the vessel heavily damaged and listing toward one side. Spanish emergency teams evacuated 14 crew members near Cartagena. Two engineers remained missing after the incident.
CNN Investigation Raises Torpedo Questions
The recent CNN investigation focused on several details that investigators still cannot fully explain. One issue involved a 50-by-50-centimeter breach discovered in the hull. Russian operator Oboronlogistika claimed the metal bent inward, suggesting force from outside the vessel.
CNN also reported that Spanish investigators examined the possibility of a supercavitating torpedo strike. Sources connected to the investigation mentioned similarities between the hull damage and impacts associated with high-speed underwater weapons.
The investigation referenced four seismic signals detected near the sinking zone. Spain’s National Seismological Network reportedly observed patterns resembling underwater detonations. Investigators compared the signals to mine or quarry explosions.
Another key detail involved Russian naval activity near the wreck. Days after the sinking, the Russian intelligence vessel Yantar arrived in the area. The ship specializes in underwater operations and deep-sea reconnaissance. Analysts believe Moscow wanted direct control over evidence located around the wreck site.
Questions About the Cargo and North Korea
The CNN report also examined claims regarding the ship’s cargo. Spanish investigators reportedly suspected the vessel carried components linked to submarine nuclear reactors. Some sources connected the shipment to North Korea.
According to the investigation, the declared cargo created inconsistencies. Analysts questioned why Russia would transport ordinary industrial equipment across such a long sea route while rail connections inside Russia remained available.
Investigators also reviewed satellite imagery and onboard container arrangements. CNN reported that several containers appeared nearly empty while large crane systems occupied key deck positions. Analysts suggested the cranes could support unloading sensitive cargo at a restricted destination.
No government has publicly confirmed the North Korea allegation. Russian authorities rejected outside speculation and continued describing the event as a terrorist attack.
Chronological Timeline of the Ursa Major Incident
December 11, 2024
The Ursa Major departed Saint Petersburg for Vladivostok. Official cargo declarations included cranes and heavy industrial equipment.
December 22, 2024
Tracking systems showed the vessel slowing dramatically between Spain and Algeria. Russian reports later mentioned an explosion inside the engine room.
December 23, 2024
Emergency rescue teams responded after distress signals. The vessel listed heavily before sinking late that night. Fourteen crew members survived. Two crew members disappeared.
December 25, 2024
Oboronlogistika publicly described the sinking as a deliberate terrorist attack. The company stated that three explosions damaged the hull.
January 2025
The Russian intelligence ship Yantar arrived near the wreck site to support underwater investigations.
May 2026
CNN released a detailed investigation examining possible torpedo damage, suspicious cargo activity, and intelligence operations connected to the sinking.
