Tanker struck by drone in Strait of Hormuz: UK agency

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said Friday that a tanker was struck by an uncrewed aerial vehicle while conducting an outbound transit of the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, noting that the vessel sustained minor damage and all crew were accounted for.

Attack details

The agency stated it received reports from military authorities regarding the incident, which occurred at 1552GMT. "UKMTO has received reports from military authorities that a tanker was struck by an Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) whilst conducting an outbound transit of the Strait of Hormuz," it said. "The vessel was subject to minor damage, crew are reported as safe and accounted for and no environmental impact has been reported," the agency added.

UKMTO did not identify the tanker or specify which entity launched the drone strike.

Navigation warning

Officials urged vessels transiting the region to maintain vigilance following the attack. "Vessels are advised to transit with caution and report any suspicious activity to UKMTO," the agency said. Thursday’s incident marks the latest security breach affecting commercial traffic through the vital chokepoint.

Strategic context

The attack comes amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz as the US-Iran war continues to disrupt regional maritime traffic. Diplomatic efforts to secure freedom of navigation through the waterway — a vital route for global energy supplies — have so far failed to prevent sporadic attacks on civilian vessels.

The incident was reported at 1552GMT on Thursday, with UKMTO issuing its formal advisory on Friday. Diplomatic efforts to secure freedom of navigation through the strait remain ongoing.