Three India-linked Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) carrying nearly 6 million barrels of Iraqi and Kuwaiti crude have re-emerged in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea after attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, according to ship-tracking data.
The vessels — Desh Vibhor, Desh Vaibhav, and Sanmar Herald — were last observed signaling near the Strait late Friday before reappearing on Sunday. Together, the tankers are transporting approximately 6 million barrels of crude oil destined for India or linked to Indian ownership.
Their movements come amid heightened uncertainty over navigation through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, following conflicting statements regarding the waterway’s operational status. While Iran claimed the strait had been closed, citing regional security concerns, the U.S. military reported continued vessel movements, stating that dozens of merchant ships carrying significant volumes of oil had successfully crossed the chokepoint.
Ship-tracking data indicate sustained two-way tanker traffic through the region. Several laden crude carriers and LNG vessels were observed entering and exiting the Persian Gulf, while some vessels temporarily switched off their AIS transponders during transit, a practice occasionally adopted for security and commercial reasons.
The reappearance of the India-linked tankers is likely to reassure energy markets and Indian refiners, underscoring the continued flow of crude supplies despite elevated geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region.
Meanwhile, maritime security agencies have issued varying navigation guidance. The Joint Military Information Center advised vessels that they may continue using the southern transit route through Hormuz with AIS systems active, while earlier advisories had recommended reduced electronic signaling due to security concerns. The guidance follows reports of a potential maritime mine hazard along parts of the route.
The developments highlight the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, through which a substantial share of the world’s seaborne crude oil and LNG exports pass, making uninterrupted navigation critical for global energy security.
