On December 30, 2025, the Turkish-flagged product tanker "Alatepe" and the Azeran-flagged product tanker "Kalbajar" collided in the Küçükmede anchorage of the Marmara Sea near Istanbul due strong winds.

The anchor chain of the "Alatepe" became entangled around the propeller shaft of the "Kalbajar" at the time of the. The two ships were eventually separated successfully, and no reports of injuries or pollution were made.

At the time of the accident, both tankers were at anchor in theüçükmede anchorage. The "Kalbajar" was in ballast condition with 14 crew members on board; the "Alatepe" 17 crew members and was carrying approximately 2,500 tons of chemical cargo.

Both ships sent out distress signals. After the collision, the anchor chain the "Kalbajar" damaged the propeller of the "Alatepe," causing it to become immobile. A rescue team and the tugboat "Karma-9" were dispatched to the scene. With their assistance, the two ships were disentangled, and the "Kalbajar" was towed to safety.

However, the "Alatepe" subsequently ran aground. Once weather conditions improve, salvage operations will begin for the "Alatepe.