Saudi super-tankers reappear after two months of silence

MarineTraffic data has confirmed the reactivation of Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals from three Saudi Arabian-flagged super-tankers, which had been untraceable for over two months. The vessels, identified as the Jaham, Shaden and Awtad, began transmitting their positions again on June 18, marking a significant shift in regional maritime operations.

Geopolitical context and de-escalation

This development follows a memorandum of understanding signed between the United States and Iran, which appears to be fostering a climate of normalisation in the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, and the resumption of signals suggests that operators are cautiously restoring their visibility while transiting the area. The three vessels are Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs), a class of super-tanker vital for international oil transportation.

Destinations and cargo

Tracking information indicates that the Shaden is heading towards the port of Kiire in Japan, while the Awtad is bound for Ulsan, South Korea. The final destination for the Jaham has not yet been disclosed. According to energy analytics firm Kpler, these three tankers are collectively transporting a substantial cargo of approximately 6 million barrels of crude oil. This movement is being closely watched as a barometer for the stability of energy exports from the region.