Tracking two reported dark fleet tankers in difficulty in the Mediterraneanpublished at 11:23 GMT
11:23 GMT
Image source, MarineTrafficImage caption,
Data from MarineTraffic shows the Chariot Tide’s erratic travel pattern
This morning we’re looking into two “dark fleet” oil tankers which ship-tracking shows have been sailing erratically in the Mediterranean.
Overnight, north of Algeria, a ship called the Progress briefly signalled on its onboard tracker that it was “Not Under Command”. This is typically broadcast when a ship is unable to manoeuvre. There can be many reasons for this, including engine failure, rudder issues, or some other kind of damage.
Progress has since changed its status to “Under way Using Engine” and says it is sailing to Port Said, Egypt, laden with oil.
Elsewhere, near the Strait of Gibraltar, another ship called Chariot Tide began signalling “Not Under Command” on 22 January. It then sailed erratically east for several days afterwards, before changing its signal to “Underway Using Engine” on 25 January and travelling eastwards. For a while several tug boats were sailing nearby which may have been supporting it.
We’re speaking to experts to find out what may have happened.
Both ships are under sanctions for illicit oil trading and like many ships in the “dark fleet” they are relatively old. Older vessels are typically cheaper to buy but need additional maintenance to remain operational.