A commercial ship has reported being struck by “sea drones” in the southern Red Sea, according to maritime security firms.
Diaplous Group said the alert from the vessel was transmitted on Thursday through VHF channel 16, in the southern Red Sea, about 84 nautical miles (155 km) south-west of Hodeidah in Yemen.
The ship called for immediate assistance by warships in the vicinity.
“Vessels are advised to keep well clear of this position or exercise extreme caution, if in the vicinity, minimise deck crew movements and report any suspicious activity,” Diaplous said.
Security company Ambrey Analytics said the ship had reported taking a hit from a “projectile”.
The vessel was transiting south at the time, heading to Dammam in Saudi Arabia.
Ambrey added a warship was reportedly approaching to assist the ship.
No injuries have been reported.
Africa Risk Compliance said there had been minor damage from an explosion near the ship.
Sea drones were used to sink a Greek bulker last week in an escalation of the militant group’s actions and capabilities.
A video distributed on multiple media channels and social media purported to show a Houthi sea drone approaching Evalend Shipping’s 82,000-dwt Tutor (built 2022).
The vessel is believed to have gone down in the Red Sea after suffering the first direct hit from an unmanned bomb boat.
On Sunday, the Houthis attacked Stealth Maritime’s 178,000-dwt capesize Transworld Navigator (built 2010) with missiles while underway 65 nautical miles north-west of Hodeidah in the Red Sea.
Diaplous and Ambrey Analytics said the ship suffered damage to its portside accommodation ladder and the bridge.
A number of crew injuries were also reported. These were said to not require immediate medical attention.
The ship had continued sailing to the next port of call.
The same bulker issued a distress call on Friday while in the Gulf of Aden, saying it had seen two explosions in the vicinity of the port side.
