U.S. maritime authorities have issued updated security guidance for commercial vessels operating in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, citing continued risks from projectiles, drones, unmanned vehicles, and drifting naval mines since February 2022, with incidents reported as recently as January 2026. While some attacks may have targeted vessels linked to specific countries, officials warn that misidentification or miscalculation could expose any commercial ship in the region to significant danger.

U.S.-flagged vessels are advised to conduct thorough risk assessments, review security measures, and monitor current advisories from the NATO Shipping Center and NAVAREA III. Ships are encouraged to incorporate appropriate protective measures into their vessel security plans and to activate the Ship Security Alert System in the event of suspicious activity or an incident. Reporting requirements include immediate notification to the NATO Shipping Center, the U.S. Coast Guard National Response Center, and U.S. Naval Forces Europe’s Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping (NCAGS) detachment. The advisory also urges participation in NATO’s Mediterranean Voluntary Reporting Scheme and reminds mariners to consult U.S. State Department travel advisories and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The notice replaces U.S. Maritime Advisory 2025-011 and will expire automatically on August 27.