US Military Oversees 92 Secret Oil Transfers to Keep Gulf Exports Flowing After Hormuz Closure
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 16
US Military Oversees 92 Secret Oil Transfers to Keep Gulf Exports Flowing After Hormuz Closure
3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 16
Summary
At least 92 ships have joined a U.S.-run ship-to-ship oil transfer network since early May, moving Gulf crude around Iran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Reuters identified two transfer hubs off Fujairah and Sohar, where tankers sail dark with transponders off, depart 3,000-4,000 meters apart, and offload to waiting VLCCs in transfers lasting 24-40 hours.
June 9 linked the operation to the wider conflict: an Apache helicopter shot down by Iran was involved in the mission, according to four sources, though a U.S. defense official denied Central Command forces are taking part.
About 90 million barrels may have moved through the offshore network, still far below the roughly 20 million barrels a day that normally passed through Hormuz before the war.
The workaround has helped exporters including ADNOC and Kuwait’s tanker fleet, but shipping officials say dark transits, sparse reporting and possible Iranian drone or missile attacks make it a temporary, high-risk fix.
Beyond oil, how does the Hormuz blockade threaten global food security and the green energy transition?
As the U.S. adopts 'dark fleet' tactics, what new precedents are being set for global maritime security?
How will the first combat rescue by a drone boat reshape future naval warfare and personnel risk?
Under Siege: The US’s Secret Oil Convoys and the Global Fallout from the 2026 Strait of Hormuz Blockade
Overview
In response to ongoing blockades that threaten global oil distribution, the United States has launched a covert operation using ship-to-ship oil transfers. As of May 2026, at least 92 vessels have participated, sailing 'dark' by disabling their transponders and keeping large distances to avoid detection. The US supports this effort mainly through intelligence, aerial surveillance, and compliance screening, rather than direct military involvement. Every operator must pass a strict compliance review managed by the US Navy in Bahrain, ensuring the operation’s security and integrity. This strategy helps maintain vital oil supply flows despite significant risks and disruptions.