Maritime Safety , Security and Technology

U.S.-Flagged Stena Imperative Tanker Hit by Iranian Missiles during Bahrain Attack

March 4, 2026 Maritime Current News

A U.S.-flagged tanker participating in a U.S. military fuel supply program was struck by Iranian missiles early Monday, March 2, during renewed regional hostilities centered around the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz.

The tanker, Stena Imperative (49,800 dwt), sustained damage while docked in Bahrain. The vessel’s crew was safely evacuated, but reports indicate that one shipyard worker was killed and two others were seriously injured in the attack.

The vessel is part of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) Tanker Security Program, which supports the U.S. Department of Defense by ensuring access to commercial tankers capable of transporting liquid fuel supplies during times of military need. In 2023, U.S.-based shipping manager Crowley, together with its partner Stena Bulk USA, secured contracts for three tankers under the program: Stena Immaculate, Stena Imperative, and Stena Impeccable.

Notably, Stena Immaculate was previously involved in an allision in March 2025 off the coast of England after being struck by a Portuguese-flagged containership.

According to statements issued to international wire services, Crowley and Stena Bulk confirmed that Stena Imperative was hit by two projectiles at approximately 0300 local time on March 2. A fire broke out onboard following the impact but was successfully extinguished. The companies acknowledged structural damage and said a full survey is underway to assess the extent of the incident.

Security analysts suggest the tanker may have been targeted due to its role in the U.S. fuel support program. However, observers have also pointed to the increasingly indiscriminate nature of recent Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz, describing them as actions intended to generate fear rather than strike specific vessels.

Earlier in February, the Stena Imperative reportedly encountered Iranian speedboats while inbound to the Persian Gulf. The speedboats instructed the tanker to stop or alter course toward Iran, but the vessel increased speed and maneuvered away. A U.S. warship was present in the area at the time, and the tanker continued its voyage without further incident.

Tracking data shows the vessel had recently been in Fujairah before sailing to Bahrain, where it was undergoing maintenance at the time of the missile strike. The tanker ceased transmitting AIS signals on February 28, shortly before the latest wave of attacks began.

The Stena Imperative represents a strategic capability for U.S. logistics operations. In 2025, the vessel was certified for ship-to-ship refueling while underway, enhancing operational flexibility for military fuel distribution.

The attack comes amid escalating maritime security concerns across the Persian Gulf. Security firms confirmed that four vessels were struck on Sunday, with reports of at least one fatality. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also reported that another vessel was hit by a drone on Monday outside the Strait of Hormuz. Vessel tracking signals indicate that many commercial ships have halted transit operations and are holding position at a safe distance from Iranian waters.

Meanwhile, U.S. Central Command stated it is continuing operations aimed at systematically degrading Iranian ballistic missile capabilities as tensions in the region remain high.