Μake us preferred on Google Greek authorities are closely monitoring a Turkish research vessel operating southwest of the Greek island of Kastellorizo, with a Hellenic Coast Guard vessel deployed near its area of activity.
The R/V TÜBİTAK MARMARA departed the Turkish port of Marmaris after Turkey issued NAVTEX 0862/26, a maritime navigation notice covering the area through September 15.
According to information reported by Ta Nea, the Greek Coast Guard vessel has approached the research vessel and is maintaining a discreet presence at a safe distance while recording its movements. The operation is being coordinated with the Hellenic Navy.
Turkish research vessel operating southwest of Kastellorizo
The TÜBİTAK MARMARA is currently sailing southwest of Kastellorizo in an area that, under international maritime law, is considered open sea.
Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the vessel is covered by the freedom of scientific research, provided that its activities are limited to surface-water measurements, such as salinity and temperature.
Greece issues Anti-NAVTEX
The deployment followed Turkey’s issuance of NAVTEX 0862/26 by the Antalya station. The Turkish notice seeks to reserve the area for scientific research until September 15 and links the activities to a recently announced marine park.
Greece has responded administratively by issuing an Anti-NAVTEX through the competent Greek station in Heraklion, Crete. The Greek notice rejects the Turkish announcement and maintains that responsibility for coordinating navigation in the area falls under Greek jurisdiction.
