Achilles Vessel Reviews and Specifications

In a significant development, the U.S. Treasury Department announced sanctions in the final week of July 2025 against over 115 individuals, entities, and vessels linked to Iran and engaged in the transportation of Russian oil. Among the impacted vessels are three tankers, namely 'Tagor', 'Guanyin', and 'Tassos', all of which were slated to deliver Russian oil to Indian ports this month. According to trade sources and Russian shipping data, the 'Tagor' was intended for Chennai, while the 'Guanyin' and 'Tassos' were off to western Indian ports. These sanctions aim to undermine Russia’s oil revenue, which is perceived as a financial backbone for its ongoing military actions in Ukraine, thereby affecting Indian imports, as the nation derives over a third of its oil supply from Russia. Following the sanctions, the 'Tagor' altered its course to Dalian, while the 'Tassos' redirected to Port Said. The 'Guanyin', however, continued its journey towards Sikka—a port utilized by Reliance Industries (RELI.NS) and Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL.NS). Additionally, other sanctioned tankers, 'Achilles' and 'Elyte', are in the process of preparing to unload Russian Urals oil for Reliance, both of which have been subjected to sanctions by the UK and the European Union.

On January 26, 2024, the maritime community was alarmed as two tankers, the 'Achilles' and the 'Marlin Luanda', were threatened by missile attacks while navigating through the Red Sea. The 'Achilles', which was transporting Russian oil from Ust-Luga to India, and the 'Marlin Luanda', found themselves in the line of fire near Aden. Fortunately, both vessels reported that they were safe after witnessing the missiles detonate in the water around them. The 'Marlin Luanda' was approximately 60 nautical miles south of Aden when its captain reported two missiles approaching the port side of the ship. Unfortunately, one missile successfully struck the tanker, igniting a fire within a cargo tank on the starboard side. Crew members swiftly activated onboard firefighting measures to control and suppress the blaze, ensuring the safety of everyone aboard. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region and their impact on maritime safety and shipping operations.