Drone Attack Hits Tanker Near Sharjah; 22 Indian Crew Safe
An unidentified drone strike targeted a Panama-flagged crude oil supertanker near the UAE coast, sparking fresh concerns over maritime security in the Arabian Gulf. The vessel, the MT GEM NO. 2, was struck while anchored approximately 13 nautical miles west of Al Jazeera at the Sharjah Anchorage on October 9.
According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), an unidentified projectile hit the vessel, resulting in a fire. The fire was subsequently brought under control, preventing further escalation on the ship.
All 22 Indian Crew Members Safe
The tanker, a 2017-built Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) with a capacity of approximately 302,780 DWT, was carrying 22 Indian seafarers at the time of the assault. Following the incident, Indian Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed that all crew members are safe.
In a statement posted to X, Sonowal noted that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and remain in active coordination with the ship management company to ensure the continued security of all personnel on board.
Growing Risks for Indian Mariners in the Gulf
This incident highlights the increasing volatility facing commercial shipping in the region. The Directorate General of Shipping estimates that there are approximately 23,000 Indian mariners currently working in the Gulf, with over 12,800 based in the UAE. Large numbers of Indian seafarers are also stationed in Saudi