Iranian Crude Tanker Quietly Slips Through Monitoring, Evades Tracking Systems

03/05/2026

TEHRAN, May 3: An Iranian oil tanker has reached the Far East after reportedly evading international tracking and surveillance systems, according to maritime monitoring reports.

The Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC), operated by the National Iranian Tanker Company, is said to be carrying more than 1.9 million barrels of crude oil valued at approximately $220 million. The vessel, identified as HUGE (IMO: 9357183), was last detected near Sri Lanka over a week ago before disappearing from tracking systems.

Recent reports indicate the tanker has resurfaced while transiting the Lombok Strait, heading toward the Riau Archipelago in the Far East. Analysts suggest the ship may have deliberately disabled its tracking signals to avoid detection, a tactic sometimes associated with sanctions evasion.

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of Iranian oil shipments, particularly as the United States Navy continues to monitor maritime activity linked to sanctions enforcement. Authorities have not officially confirmed interception or further action regarding the vessel.