Expert names possible reasons for tanker crash in the Kerch Strait

The crash of tankers in the Kerch Strait could have occurred due to exceeding the limits of their service life, industry experts told Izvestia.

Breaking storm: two tankers in distress off the coast of Kerch

The powerful elements snapped both vessels in half

"These vessels are very old. Such tankers last 30-40 years, while these ones were over 50," explained Igor Kovalchuk, deputy chairman of the Russian Professional Union of Seafarers.

The vessel Volgoneft-212 was built in 1969 and Volgoneft-239 in 1973.

According to the information of the specialist, the maximum wave height for "Volgoneft-212" is 2.5 meters, for "Volgoneft-239" - 2 meters. In essence, these are river vessels that have gone to sea, he stated.

"Such vessels have limitations, especially when sailing in bad weather. They depend on the design. If the conditions are violated, which is what happened in this case, the vessel can simply fracture. The bow and stern find themselves on two waves, and the middle part sags, as a result the metal may not hold, especially if the vessel is overloaded. "Volgoneft-239" should not have left the port at all, as the documents for it are suspended", - said Igor Kovalchuk.

The investigation of the emergency may last several months, possibly more than a year, believes lawyer Dmitry Zatsarinsky.

Tankers Volgoneft-212 and Volgoneft-239 crashed in the Kerch Strait on December 15. As a result of the rescue operation it was possible to evacuate both crews - 27 people. One sailor from the vessel "Volgoneft-212" died, said the Ministry of Emergency Situations. Both tankers were tested for suitability for transportation of dangerous goods in July this year, the IC reported.

Read more in the exclusive material "Izvestia":

Storm bias: what could have led to the tragedy in the Kerch Strait