Limpet Mine Attack in Strait of Hormuz: Tanker Carrying 27 Indians Targeted, All Crew Safe

A crude oil tanker carrying 27 Indian sailors came under attack in the Strait of Hormuz after a small vessel reportedly attached two limpet mines to its hull.

The Panama-flagged tanker, MT LOUISE 1, was targeted on Friday, triggering explosions that caused a fire in its engine room, Reuters reported. The blasts temporarily disrupted the vessel’s operations, but the crew successfully brought the fire under control. No injuries or environmental damage were reported, and the tanker was able to continue its journey.

The attack is being described as the first confirmed use of limpet mines against a ship in the strategic waterway since the conflict began in February.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the incident took place around 46 kilometres northeast of Khasab in Oman.

Reuters noted that limpet mines first appeared in the region in 2017 and were subsequently used in attacks against tankers navigating the Strait of Hormuz.

Greece-based maritime risk management firm Marisks highlighted the accessibility and effectiveness of these weapons. According to the company, deploying small boats to attach explosive devices to the hulls of moving vessels is a relatively inexpensive and low-technology method.

MT ARZANAH Also Comes Under Attack
The incident followed another attack on Thursday involving Liberia-flagged MT ARZANAH, a very large crude carrier (VLCC) transporting two Indian nationals. The tanker was struck by projectiles while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

These incidents come amid increasing threats to commercial shipping in the region following the outbreak of US-Iran hostilities in February. Iran has targeted vessels accused of breaching its transit restrictions, as tensions over control of the strategically important waterway continue.

Sarbananda Sonowal Confirms Safety of Indian Crew
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said all Indian sailors involved in the incidents were safe and had suffered no injuries.

In a statement shared on X, the minister said authorities were closely monitoring developments and maintaining contact with ship management companies to safeguard Indian crew members.

He reiterated that the government was taking steps to ensure the continued security and well-being of Indian seafarers operating in the region.