Bulgaria Deploys Naval Frigate to Investigate Drone Attacks on Two Cargo Ships in Black Sea

BULGARIA — The Bulgarian Navy deployed its frigate Verni to search for evidence following drone attacks on two commercial cargo vessels in the Black Sea on October 6, 2026. The attacks occurred within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, approximately 70 nautical miles east of Byala. One vessel sank, while the other sustained extensive fire damage. Bulgarian authorities are investigating the incidents to determine the origin of the drones and establish responsibility. On October 9, Bulgarian military personnel boarded the damaged Palau-flagged bulk carrier Able, which had been drifting after the attack. The inspection team spent approximately 30 minutes aboard, examining the damaged sections, photographing the vessel, and searching for drone fragments. Despite the extensive fire damage, personnel were able to enter the ship. However, no drone debris was recovered during the inspection or the search at sea.

Two More Tankers Struck in Strait of Hormuz as U.S. Forces Disable Cargo Ship in Gulf of Oman

Two additional oil tankers were struck by unidentified projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz on October 10 and 11, 2026, as security threats to commercial shipping continued to increase across the region. According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), both vessels sustained damage during separate incidents. All crew members were reported safe, while authorities continued investigating the attacks. In the first incident, an outbound tanker was struck on its port side on October 10, causing a fire onboard. The extent of the damage and possible environmental impact remained undetermined. Another outbound tanker was hit by an unidentified projectile on October 11, sustaining damage to its port side. UKMTO confirmed that the crew members were safe and no environmental impact had been reported. Neither vessel was identified, and responsibility for the attacks remained unconfirmed.

Iran says U.S. response to Hormuz reopening proposal remains insufficient

Iran said on October 11 that the United States had not adequately addressed its conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, described Washington’s response as insufficient and called for clarification on unresolved issues. Tehran presented its proposal during the United Nations General Assembly, offering to restore normal maritime passage within seven days if its conditions were met. Washington subsequently replied through Qatari intermediaries. The proposed timetable was conditional and did not establish a confirmed reopening date.

US and UK Impose New Sanctions on Tankers and Companies Linked to Iran and Russia

The United States and the United Kingdom announced new sanctions on October 8, 2026, targeting oil tankers, shipping networks, and companies linked to Iran and Russia. The measures aim to restrict revenue from petroleum exports, disrupt sanctions evasion, and increase economic pressure on both countries. The US Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions on 17 additional tankers allegedly involved in transporting Iranian petroleum and petrochemical products. The action forms part of Operation Economic Outcast, which targets vessels and international networks accused of helping Iran evade restrictions. The US State Department separately designated 10 entities, six individuals, and five vessels connected to Iranian petrochemical trade.

CAPP Industries Successfully Opens New Jotun Studio in Tagaytay

TAGAYTAY CITY, Cavite — CAPP Industries (Int’l) Inc. successfully held the grand opening of its new Jotun Studio on October 9, 2026, at 456 Emilio Aguinaldo Highway, Maitim 2nd West, Tagaytay City, marking another milestone in the company’s business expansion.

Virtue Maritime Services Corp. 🤝 TDM Shipping

A Vessel Where Filipino Seafarers Stay: MV Frederikke What makes a crew stay? On a recent visit to MV Frederikke, operated by TDM Shipping Inc., the answer was seen in respect, fair treatment, and rest that is actually balanced.

MARINO PH Info Caravan at West Bay Colleges Brings Maritime Industry Updates to Future Seafarers

MUNTINLUPA CITY, Philippines—MARINO PH conducted its Info Caravan at West Bay Colleges, Inc. on October 1, 2026 bringing maritime organizations and industry professionals directly to students as part of the school’s Maritime Industry Updates program. The activity was held in connection with the 27th National Maritime Week

LACERTA Shipping Agencies Philippines Holds New Office Blessing and Industry Gathering

LACERTA Shipping Agencies Philippines Inc. celebrated the blessing and opening of its new office on October 1, 2026. Maritime professionals, industry partners, friends, and colleagues gathered to share in this milestone.

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation

CPR, or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, is an emergency lifesaving procedure performed when a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally or has no signs of circulation. It combines chest compressions and, when appropriate, rescue breaths to help keep blood and oxygen flowing to the brain and other vital organs until the heart starts working again or professional medical help arrives. For an adult, CPR generally uses 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths, repeated at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute. An AED should be used as soon as it becomes available.

ZONE OF APPROACH

Navigate with awareness and confidence! Understanding the zone of approach helps mariners recognize how vessels meet, cross, and overtake—building the awareness needed to assess potential collision risks.

Lines of Latitude and Longitude

Latitude and longitude are imaginary reference lines used to determine the exact position of any place on Earth. They form the basis of the geographic coordinate system and are widely used in navigation, mapping, surveying, and positioning. For seafarers, understanding latitude and longitude is essential for plotting a vessel’s position, planning routes, and maintaining safe navigation at sea.

PARTS OF A TYPICAL STOCKLESS ANCHOR

A stockless anchor is designed for modern ships due to its compact shape, strong holding power, and easy handling. Each part, including the shank, fluke, crown, and anchor shackle, has a specific function that helps secure vessels safely during anchoring operations. Understanding anchor components is essential for every seafarer.