The towing operation is classified as a specialised task, showcasing the Authority's exceptional competence and expertise.

The operation spanned 180 nautical miles, and the team completed it successfully in record time.

Ismailia, November 5, 2026: Admiral Osama Rabie, Chairman of the Suez Canal Authority (SCA), announced the successful rescue and towing of the oil tanker M/T Alyssum. (IMO 9314818, MMSI 273273770 -sailing under the flag of Russia) The vessel had experienced a sudden failure of its main engines off the coast of El Alamein and was assisted by the SCA’s salvage tug Mohamed Bashir, which delivered it safely to the Port Said anchorage area for necessary maintenance and repairs.- 

"Sphinx" to undertake the salvage and towing operation

The tanker measures 182.5 meters in length and 43.5 meters in width, with a total tonnage of 23,000 tons and a draft of 11.2 feet. Rabie explained that the Suez Canal Authority SCA responded promptly to a request from the shipping agency "Sphinx" to undertake the salvage and towing operation after the tanker’s main engines failed off the coast of El Alamein.

 The operation is considered a specialised task

The SCA Chairman added that this operation highlights the Authority’s proficiency and experience in maritime salvage, and is considered a specialised task. The tow covered a distance of 180 nautical miles and was successfully completed in record time. The SCA Chairman confirmed that the Authority is ready to provide salvage and towing services, and respond to potential emergencies within and beyond the Canal’s navigable waterway. These capabilities form part of the SCA's broader range of maritime and navigational services offered to clients, which include repair and maintenance, oil spill response and maritime ambulance services, among others.

Related: SCA states the status or condition of the vessel "FENER"

Rabie emphasised the SCA’s expertise in marine salvage, highlighting its highly qualified personnel. He also mentioned the Authority’s extensive fleet, which includes specialised salvage assets such as salvage tugs, launches and floating cranes. The most notable addition to the fleet is the recently acquired floating crane "CC", which has a lifting capacity of 2,200 tons.

George Safwat, official spokesperson for the Suez Canal Authority, stated:

Related : Rabie: "Successful maritime rescue efforts in saving the crew of the cargo ship "FENER"

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