27 Indians Aboard Tanker Targeted in Strait of Hormuz Attack Using Limpet Mines

A Panama-flagged crude oil tanker carrying 27 Indian sailors was attacked with limpet mines in the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, according to a Reuters report.

The vessel, MT LOUISE 1, was reportedly approached by a small craft that attached two explosive devices to its hull. The explosions sparked a fire in the engine room and temporarily disrupted the tanker’s operations. However, the crew managed to bring the fire under control. No environmental damage was reported, and the vessel subsequently resumed its voyage.

The incident is believed to be the first confirmed use of limpet mines against a vessel in the strategic waterway since the conflict began in February.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), a British maritime security agency, said the attack occurred approximately 46 kilometres northeast of Khasab, Oman.

According to Reuters, limpet mines were first deployed in the region in 2017 and have since been used in attacks on commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz.

Marisks, a Greece-based maritime risk management firm, described the weapons as inexpensive and readily accessible. The company told Reuters that using small boats to attach mines to passing vessels is a low-cost, relatively simple and effective method of attack.

Another Indian-Linked Tanker Targeted
The latest incident came a day after another oil tanker, Liberia-flagged MT ARZANAH, was struck by projectiles while sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. The very large crude carrier (VLCC) had two Indian nationals on board.

The attacks are part of a growing series of incidents involving commercial shipping in the strategic waterway, with tensions rising following the outbreak of hostilities between the United States and Iran in February.

Iran has targeted vessels it accuses of violating its transit restrictions, seeking to reinforce its control over the Strait of Hormuz and increase pressure on Washington.

Government Confirms Indian Sailors Are Safe
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that the Indian sailors aboard the affected vessels were safe and had not sustained any injuries.

In a post on X, the minister said the government was closely monitoring developments and coordinating with ship management companies to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian crew members.