ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - May 10, 2024

ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - May 10, 2024

ZeroFox physical security experts collect, curate, and analyze information derived from open and proprietary sources for comprehensive context of the circumstances surrounding global events. Here is today’s daily roundup of major developments.

Brief Highlights

• Ukraine Strikes Gazprom Facility 1,500 Kilometers Inside Russia
• Houthis Claim New Attacks Including in the Indian Ocean
• India Projects Significant Power Shortfall in June

Ukraine Strikes Gazprom Facility 1,500 Kilometers Inside Russia

On May 9, a Ukrainian drone hit the Gazprom neftekhim Salavat refinery in the Republic of Bashkortostan, Russia. The strike demonstrated a significant new range of capabilities for Ukraine; the drone reportedly flew for 1,500 kilometers (932 miles), surpassing Ukraine's previous 1,000 kilometer (621 miles) record. Additionally, showcasing the new range capability may have been intended as a symbolic blow to Russia, as the country held Victory Day celebrations to commemorate the Soviet Union's victory in World War Two. Earlier in the day, two other Ukrainian strikes also hit two oil depots in Krasnodar Region, Russia. These three strikes together demonstrate Ukraine is continuing its strategy of damaging Russia's lucrative energy exports.

Houthis Claim New Attacks Including in the Indian Ocean

On May 9, Yemen’s Houthi rebels claimed an additional three attacks on nearby cargo vessels, including one in the Indian Ocean. A Houthi spokesperson claimed two attacks, both of which took place on May 7, on the MSC Diego and MSC Gina as they transited the Gulf of Aden. U.S. military sources claimed neither vessel was struck and no casualties were reported. The Houthis also claimed to have targeted the MSC Vittoria in the Indian Ocean, though no other authorities have acknowledged that attack and it is unclear when it may have taken place. Houthi attacks have decreased in recent weeks amid continued airstrikes by American and British naval forces.

India Projects Significant Power Shortfall in June

On May 9, sources reported that India was projecting its largest power shortfall in 14 years this June amid a downturn in hydroelectric generation. Authorities have projected a worst-case shortage of 14 gigawatts during June nighttime hours when solar generation is unavailable. If true, it would be India’s largest power shortfall since 2009-10. In response to the projection, India’s Central Electricity Authority is deferring planned maintenance on power plants to keep them in service longer and reviving idle coal-fired plants.