NATO: Nautical Cat And Mouse

Soviet snooping in Norway

At first, the distress call seemed routine. The Soviet oceanographic vessel Zarya asked permission to enter Norwegian waters, claiming engine problems. Later the captain added the information that the ship's hull was leaking. But when a Norwegian naval officer and an engine expert clambered on board, they found no signs of water or of mechanical trouble. Instead, they glimpsed an enormous amount of sophisticated electronic gear. Local authorities ordered the boat out of Norwegian territory. Once in international waters, the Zarya turned on a miraculous burst of speed.

So it goes in...

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