Outbound Tanker Struck by Projectile in Strait of Hormuz

STRAIT OF HORMUZ — United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) received a report on October 10 that the master (Captain) of an outbound tanker was struck on the port side by an unknown projectile within the Strait of Hormuz at 7:20 PM UTC, causing a fire on board.

Crew were reported safe. Damage assessment and environmental impact remained unknown at the time of the report. Vessels were advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO while authorities investigate.

In a separate report the same day, UKMTO received accounts from several masters (ship captains) in the vicinity of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, that they had been directed via VHF broadcast at 6:50 PM UTC to move from their anchorages.

Authorities continued to investigate, and vessels were requested to report any further suspicious activity.

Location

• The attack occurred within the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway between Oman and Iran that carries a substantial share of global seaborne oil trade, at an approximate position of UKMTO Reports Outbound Tanker Struck by Unknown Projectile in Strait of Hormuz derived from the general area of UKMTO reporting for such incidents in the strait.

• The suspicious activity occurred in the vicinity of Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates, an emirate on the Arabian Gulf coast north of the strait approaches, at an approximate position of 25.80, 55.95 based on the named location in the advisory.

Official Statements

• UKMTO, Warning 162-26, October 10: “UKMTO has received a report of an incident within the Strait of Hormuz. The Master of an outbound tanker reports being struck on the port side by an unknown projectile, causing a fire on board. Crew are reported safe. Damage assessment and environmental impact are unknown at time of report. Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO whilst authorities investigate.”

• UKMTO, Advisory 161-26, October 10: “UKMTO has received a report from several Masters in the vicinity of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, that they have been directed via VHF broadcast to move from their anchorages. Authorities continue to investigate and vessels are requested to continue to report any further suspicious activity.”