LNG Exporters Adopt Shadow Fleet Tactics Amid Hormuz Disruptions

Major liquefied natural gas (LNG) exporters in the Persian Gulf are taking drastic measures to ensure their shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway. In response to ongoing disruptions due to the Iran war, QatarEnergy and Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. have begun 'going dark,' adopting tactics typically employed by Russia's so-called shadow fleet.

By switching off vessel-tracking signals, these LNG carriers can evade detection and move their cargo quietly out of the region. The shift marks a significant change for the LNG industry, where previously almost every cargo could be tracked in real-time and traded between well-known buyers and sellers.

The adjustments also extend to hiring practices, with ships replacing captains and crew members who are reluctant to navigate the strait. In one instance, a Qatari vessel hired crew through an Indonesian recruiter that had previously supplied personnel for ships transporting sanctioned Russian LNG.

With several successful Hormuz transits under their belt, empty LNG carriers are now returning to the region to load additional cargoes. Four vessels linked to QatarEnergy and Adnoc have entered the Gulf of Oman in recent days, with one stopping transmission two days ago, suggesting it may already be making the passage through the strait.