A Ukrainian Magura V3 maritime drone was discovered near the southern coast of Lefkada in the Ionian Sea on Thursday, according to a representative from Greece’s Ministry of National Defense.
The drone’s detection prompted a swift response from multiple agencies, including the Ministry of National Defense and specialized bomb disposal units.
Initial assessments revealed that while detonators were found inside the drone, no explosive materials were present, which reduced the immediate threat level. As a result, bomb disposal experts from the TENX unit were dispatched to the site.
Authorities are currently investigating various scenarios regarding the drone’s origin and purpose. One possibility being explored is its potential involvement in illegal maritime activities, including smuggling operations. Another theory suggests that the drone may be linked to possible attacks on vessels associated with a so-called ‘shadow fleet’ that transports Russian oil to evade sanctions.
This incident is not isolated; similar occurrences have been reported in recent months. In December, a Russian tanker named ‘Kendil’ was damaged, and in March, an explosion occurred on the tanker ‘Arctic Metagas’ southeast of Malta.
The drone was reportedly discovered by fishermen in a coastal cave near Cape Dukato, with its engine still operational at the time of the find.
A Ukrainian Magura V3 drone was found off Lefkada's coast, prompting an investigation into its potential illegal uses. Authorities are assessing the drone's contents and origins amid rising maritime incidents in the region.