Russia's Fleet Returns

The Kuznetsov is the flagship of the Russian navy.  Although looks should never determine substance, I have to say that she looks pretty pathetic. Plus, she's making too much smoke - a sign the engines are not very efficient. The photo shows a Royal Navy frigate (a type about to be retired, I am told) shadowing the carrier as it passes through the English Channel on the way home from Syria.

The Arctic Sea

No - not the place. The ship.

This is a very weird story and perfect for the summer. Reports have indicated that this ship, hijacked apparently in of all places the Baltic, is somewhere near the Cape Verde Islands. It is still not clear, but now NATO as well as the Russian's are involved (16 Russian crew).

Great for conspiracy theorists too. The ship was first reported to be carrying timber. If so, why would anyone bother to hijack it - in the Baltic and then switch off its automatic locater after passing the English Channel.

With the Russian navy on its way to the Cape Verde Islands, the upcoming intercept will be fascinating to watch.

UPDATE: RIA Novisti reported today that the ship has been intercepted by Russian warships and the Russian crew is now being interviewed.

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