A growing number of vessels carrying Iranian oil have reactivated their AIS transponders, marking a rare moment of transparency after years of shadow fleet operations. Several Iranian-flagged VLCCs — including DORENA, HAWK, DIAMOND II, DUNE, and DOWNY — were recently transmitting from Kharg Island. At Larak Island, closer to the Strait of Hormuz, the tankers DIONA, HERBY and M.T. HEDY were also observed loading, both with AIS signals active.
More notably, many Iranian shipments already laden and underway have switched their AIS back on, all heading eastward. While few have declared destinations, their headings suggest likely discharge in East Asia — most probably China. For years, Iranian crude exports have moved largely in the shadows, with vessels routinely going dark or spoofing their locations. The recent uptick in AIS activity may hint at a policy adjustment or reflect broader shifts in the geopolitical landscape. Either way, the renewed visibility offers a glimpse into one of the oil market’s most opaque trade routes.
AIS signals for Iranian crude tankers are coming back on line. Stay up to date with VesselTracker and monitor all the flows.
Tue, 14 October 2025
