Two India-Bound Tankers Navigate Conflict-Hit Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions
Two oil tankers carrying crude oil from Saudi Arabia successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage through which India‘s energy supplies move, amid escalating tensions in West Asia. The vessels, Shenlong and another Liberian-flagged tanker, arrived at Mumbai on March 10 and March 9, respectively.
The first tanker, Shenlong, loaded oil from Saudi Arabia‘s largest export terminal Ras Tanura on March 1 and carried 2 million barrels of crude oil, including Basra crude, a primary export grade from Iraq. The second tanker, also carrying 1 million barrels of oil, was loaded with crude oil from Saudi Arabia.
According to industry sources, both vessels switched off their automatic identification system (AIS) and transponders while transiting the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe passage amid rising tensions in the region. There were no tracking signals available on March 1, but the tankers were spotted after they transited the Strait on March 6 and March 9.
Tankers’ AIS Signals Turned Off Amid Tensions
Shenlong’s AIS signal was turned off before transiting the Strait and then turned on again afterward. The vessel is owned by Shenlong Shipping Ltd. and managed by Greece’s Dynacom Tankers Management Ltd, as per details from S&P Global Commodities at Sea.
Ships often turn off their AIS signals temporarily to “go dark” during tense situations or if they are operating in a sanctioned or restricted trade. This move allows the vessels to avoid detection and ensure safe passage through conflict-prone areas.
Growing Risks to Shipping Amid Escalating Tensions
The attack on a Thailand-flagged bulk carrier heading for India while passing through the Strait of Hormuz highlights the growing risks to shipping as tensions between Iran and the United States intensify. The attack triggered a fire on board and prompted an emergency rescue effort, underscoring the need for caution in navigating this critical passage.
Indian Government Ramps Up Efforts to Protect Energy Security
The Indian government has started receiving cargoes for liquified natural gas (LNG) and liquified petroleum gas (LPG), with two LNG cargoes on their way to India amid concerns over a shortage of gas. The government has also stated that two crude oil vessels are on their way to India, highlighting the country’s efforts to protect its energy security.
Strait of Hormuz Remains Critical Passage for Global Energy Trade
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical passage for global energy trade, with an average of 20 million barrels per day of crude oil and oil products transiting through it in 2025. This accounts for around 25% of the world’s seaborne oil trade, as per data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).
Original Article: How two India-bound tankers went ‘dark’ to navigate conflict-hit Strait of Hormuz — Moneycontrol