Running Out of Space To Store Oil, Iran Brings Out Retired Supertanker to Keep Oil Flowing

29/04/2026

TEHRAN, April 29: A decades-old Iranian supertanker has resurfaced at the country’s main oil export hub after years out of public tracking systems, in a move that could signal mounting pressure on Tehran’s oil storage capacity.

According to a report by Bloomberg, the vessel Nasha, a 29-year-old very large crude carrier (VLCC), was spotted docked on Sunday at Kharg Island—Iran’s primary oil export terminal. The sighting was based on satellite imagery, which United Against Nuclear Iran also reviewed.

The reappearance of the aging tanker, which had largely disappeared from tracking systems in recent years, has raised questions about Iran’s strategy to sustain oil exports amid tightening logistical constraints. Analysts suggest that Tehran may be redeploying older or previously inactive vessels to continue crude shipments, particularly as storage facilities near capacity.

Iran has long relied on a mix of covert shipping practices to bypass international sanctions, including disabling tracking systems and using a “shadow fleet” of tankers. The return of vessels like the Nasha could indicate a further expansion of such methods as the country seeks to maintain oil flows despite external pressure.

Neither Iranian authorities nor shipping officials have publicly commented on the development. However, the renewed activity at Kharg Island underscores the terminal's strategic importance, which handles the majority of Iran’s crude exports.

The development comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over Iran’s energy sector, as global powers continue to monitor compliance with sanctions targeting the country’s oil trade.