A vessel suspected of transporting nuclear reactor components to North Korea, the Ursa Major, met a mysterious fate as it exploded and sank about 60 miles off the Spanish coast. The incident occurred on December 23, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea following three explosions on the ship’s starboard side, as revealed by a CNN investigation referencing Spanish officials and informed sources.
Allegedly carrying materials for two submarine nuclear reactors destined for North Korea’s Rason port, the Ursa Major’s demise raised eyebrows, especially given the recent support provided by Kim Jong Un to Russia in the Ukraine conflict. The Russian captain of the ship reportedly informed investigators that the cargo included components similar to those used in submarine reactors, contradicting an initial claim that the shipment consisted of mundane items like manhole covers.
Departing from St. Petersburg on December 11, the Ursa Major was officially bound for Vladivostok, but questions arose regarding the sea transport of such cargo across vast distances when land routes were available. The ship, accompanied by two Russian military vessels, suffered the fatal explosions near its engine room, leading to casualties and significant damage.
Investigations centered on the nature of the damage, with speculation pointing towards a high-speed torpedo or explosive device as the possible cause. Additional explosions, along with claims of a targeted terrorist attack by Russian sources, added complexity to the unfolding events. Despite doubts raised by security officials, the sinking of the Ursa Major remained a puzzling incident, further exacerbated by the return of a suspected Russian spy ship and subsequent explosive activities at the wreck site.