Collision Between Front Eagle and Adalynn Near Khorfakkan Triggers Fire and Oil Slick as GPS Interference Cited
A major maritime incident unfolded off the coast of Khorfakkan in the United Arab Emirates in the early hours of June 17, following a collision between two crude oil tankers—Front Eagle, a Liberia-flagged VLCC, and Adalynn, a Suezmax tanker flagged under Antigua and Barbuda. The incident occurred approximately 24 nautical miles from the port, resulting in a fire and a significant oil spill that now spans more than 15 square kilometers, according to Greenpeace.
Authorities confirmed that the collision led to a fire aboard both vessels. Emergency response teams, including the UAE Coast Guard, were immediately dispatched to the scene. All 24 crew members on board the Adalynn were successfully evacuated, and no fatalities or injuries were reported. Firefighting efforts brought the blaze under control, averting further escalation.
The Front Eagle was reportedly carrying nearly two million barrels of Iraqi crude oil en route to China. The Adalynn was traveling in ballast, likely heading toward the Suez Canal. The extent of the environmental damage is still being assessed, though satellite images shared by Greenpeace confirm the presence of a large oil slick originating from the Adalynn.
Initial reports from UAE maritime officials indicate that a navigational error likely contributed to the collision. However, concerns have also been raised about ongoing GPS and AIS interference in the region, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. Authorities did not rule out the possibility that electronic disruptions may have impaired the vessels’ positioning systems.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) and the Combined Maritime Forces have issued several advisories in recent months warning ships of potential GPS spoofing and jamming. These electronic navigation issues have increased in frequency amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, especially in areas adjacent to Iran’s territorial waters.
Notably, the Adalynn has been identified by maritime analysts as part of the so-called “shadow fleet”—a term referring to older tankers operating under obscure registries, often used for sanction-evading oil shipments. Vessels within this category are frequently flagged for safety concerns due to poor maintenance, lack of regulatory oversight, and low insurance standards.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint in global energy logistics, facilitating nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil trade. Any disruption in this corridor could have far-reaching implications for shipping safety and energy markets.
Environmental agencies have begun coordination with UAE authorities to manage the spill and prevent further contamination of marine ecosystems. Investigations into the root cause of the collision are ongoing, with particular attention given to the reliability of navigation systems in the region.
Shipping operators are now being urged to review their route risk assessments and enhance navigational safeguards, especially in zones where signal interference has been reported. The incident underscores the need for robust maritime safety protocols and heightened awareness of non-physical threats to vessel operations.
