UKMTO: Vessel Struck by Unknown Projectile in Strait of Hormuz, Crew Casualty Reported

STRAIT OF HORMUZ — United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) issued Warning 115-26 on August 18 stating a Company Security Officer said that a vessel was struck by an unknown projectile while conducting an outbound transit of the Strait of Hormuz.

The impact caused damage to the engine room and resulted in a crew casualty. The remaining crew are being assisted by the Omani Coast Guard. No environmental impact has been stated. Authorities are investigating.

The incident occurred in the vicinity of Khasab, Oman. UKMTO advised vessels to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity.

This strike follows three attacks on commercial vessels in the same waterway documented by the Joint Maritime Information Center in its August 16 advisory.

On August 14, two unnamed tankers conducting outbound transits were struck by unknown projectiles, sustaining minor damage while continuing under their own power with no crew injuries or environmental impact stated.

On August 15, an unnamed bulk carrier on an inbound transit was struck in the hull by an unknown projectile, with no casualties stated and the extent of damage and any environmental impact left unspecified.

Locations Affected

• Strait of Hormuz outbound transit corridor near Khasab, Oman (approximate 26.18, 56.25)

Official Statements

• United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, Warning 115-26, August 18: “UKMTO has received a report of an incident in the Strait of Hormuz. The Company Security Officer has reported that the vessel was struck by an unknown projectile while conducting an outbound transit of the Strait of Hormuz. The impact caused damage to the engine room and resulted in a crew casualty. The remaining crew are currently being assisted by the Omani Coast Guard. At present, no environmental impact has been reported. Authorities are investigating. Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO.