French research vessel prepares for Great Sea Interconnector surveys

The French research vessel Abeille Marengo is scheduled to depart from the port of Heraklion on November 9, 2026, to conduct seabed surveys for the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project. This electrical interconnection aims to link Crete and Cyprus via a 900-kilometer cable. To facilitate these operations, Greek and Cypriot authorities issued coordinated NAVTEX notices, with the Greek warning covering the period from November 6 to March 6, and the Cypriot warning spanning November 19 to March 19.

The initiative prompted an immediate diplomatic response from Turkey, which issued a counter-NAVTEX claiming that parts of the survey area lie within its unilaterally declared continental shelf. The Turkish Foreign Ministry asserted that the survey was unauthorized. However, following diplomatic discussions involving France, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan later characterized the situation as "normal" and stated that the issue had been resolved. Ankara's recent actions included flight surveillance by an Akinci drone near the site.

Despite the diplomatic friction, Greek authorities maintain that they are the sole licensing entity and that the project will proceed in accordance with international law. The surveys, which utilize acoustic systems and underwater video mapping, remain critical for determining the final cable route and installation strategy. Monitoring of the vessel’s progress will be conducted via both autonomous systems and surface units to ensure the project's continuity.