A group of Russian researchers on an expedition in the Arctic Ocean were attacked by a female walrus which sunk the ship in what is believed to be an attempt to protect her young.

Miraculously, the researchers and the walrus were unharmed by the incident.

A Russian military drone operating in the area may be what caused the attack, as the walrus may have perceived it as a threat to her cubs.

According to the Russian Military's Northern Fleet:

Serious troubles were avoided thanks to the clear and well-coordinated actions of the Northern Fleet servicemen, who were able to take the boat away from the animals without harming them.

The scientists were travelling on a tugboat known as the Altai, but were aboard a small rubber landing craft when the walrus attacked.

Walruses are not naturally aggressive, but when threatened they have been known to attack.

The Geographical Society said the incident should serve as a reminder about how dangerous the region is for humans.