ADNOC Vessel Attacks Reach 15 as Hormuz Risks Mount

ADNOC vessel attack reports have raised concerns about the company’s ability to move oil and gas through the Strait of Hormuz. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company says 15 of its vessels have been struck by missiles or drones since the war began, including three this week, with one crew member dead and 20 injured.

Key Takeaways

• ADNOC reports attacks on 15 vessels since the war began.
• One crew member was killed and 20 were injured.
• The Strait of Hormuz carries roughly one fifth of global oil consumption in ordinary conditions.
• ADNOC Logistics & Services is adding 11 large carriers in deals totaling about $1.3 billion.

How the ADNOC vessel attack toll is affecting operations

The attacks are disrupting commercial traffic through a waterway that handled roughly one fifth of global oil consumption before the United States and Israeli war against Iran widened into a regional conflict. Freight costs have climbed sharply, and some shipowners are hesitant to send vessels into the Persian Gulf.

ADNOC says the security situation is weighing heavily on operations as it works to keep crude, gas and refined products moving. The company is coordinating with authorities to protect its people and assets while trying to meet customer needs as fully as conditions allow.

The impact is notable because the United Arab Emirates has brought exports close to prewar levels. It has used loading points outside the strait, including Fujairah, while continuing to move some oil through Hormuz despite the risk.

ADNOC expands its shipping fleet despite security risks

ADNOC is increasing its own capacity to transport cargo even as attacks threaten shipping. Its logistics arm said Friday it had acquired six very large crude carriers and five very large gas carriers for about $1.3 billion. Nine ships are expected to enter service this quarter. The remaining two, new gas carriers, are due in the fourth quarter.

ADNOC Logistics & Services already owns more than 340 vessels and operates another 600 chartered ships. The new capacity is meant to support larger crude and liquefied natural gas exports as the company expands production and trading. Last month, ADNOC also ordered four new LNG carriers in a deal worth $900 million.

Can shipping routes remain open?

Fleet growth could help ADNOC handle greater export volumes, but additional ships do not remove the danger to crews or guarantee smooth passage. The company has called for freedom of navigation and safe, uninterrupted commercial shipping through international waterways. For now, its operating challenge is twofold: preserve cargo flows while protecting personnel in a route central to global energy trade.

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