Turkish-Operated Bulk Carrier ERA S Hit in Strait of Hormuz

The Panama-flagged bulk carrier ERA S, operated by Istanbul-based Transatlantic Shipping Ltd-Mai, was struck by an unidentified munition while transiting the Strait of Hormuz near Oman's Musandam Peninsula on 1 Nov 2026. The crew was unharmed and the vessel continued its voyage. According to a security notification from the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the incident occurred approximately 9 nautical miles northeast of the Limah settlement in Oman and was reported at 20:20 UTC. The munition struck the starboard side of the hull, leaving a hole, but no injuries, fatalities or environmental pollution were reported. The vessel maintained its operational capability and proceeded on its route. Built in 1999, ERA S has a deadweight tonnage of 46,681 DWT. Equasis records identify Transatlantic Shipping Ltd-Mai, based in Istanbul, as the registered owner, ISM manager and commercial operator. A Lloyd's List report dated 4 Nov 2026 said the vessel was struck while passing from the Strait of Hormuz toward the Persian Gulf. Tracking data showed ERA S anchored off the United Arab Emirates on the morning of 5 Nov 2026, with its destination listed as Mina Khalifa/Abu Dhabi, though it remains unconfirmed whether hull repairs have been made. The attack follows a series of incidents involving commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz in early November, amid ongoing military tensions between Iran and the United States. Maritime security organizations have urged vessels to exercise caution in the area. No party has been identified as responsible, and the type of munition used remains unconfirmed.