US Requests Specific Transit Hours for Tankers in Strait of Hormuz

The United States has requested oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz to navigate during specific hours to receive military protection, according to the Financial Times. The request follows increased Iranian night attacks. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia reported that the strategic East-West oil pipeline was temporarily shut down after Houthi drone strikes hit the pipeline route near Riyadh and Medina.

According to the Financial Times, tanker operators must contact the US Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping (NCAGS) center. The center provides exact coordinates and passage authorization during specific nighttime windows to allow US military aircraft to escort the vessels. The US has been assisting in securing ships traveling near Oman's coast since last May.

Changes in Transit Windows

By early September, the transit windows were shortened to two specific nighttime timeframes, according to emails between the maritime coordination center and shipping advisers. Vessels are advised to begin their transit at designated hours to ensure maximum security coverage.

We provide recommended transit times that vary from day to day. Your vessel is not required to sail only during these times, but it is recommended to do so to receive the best support and protection, the emails stated.

Strategic Costs and Regional Threats

Joshua Tallis, a maritime analyst at the US research organization CNA, told the Financial Times that the specific timing request is likely an efficient measure to manage the high costs of US air patrols in the region. Operating a US military aircraft can cost between $25,000 and $75,000 per hour.

Meanwhile, Iran recently announced plans to declare a restricted zone in the strait, threatening inspections and sanctions on commercial shipping passing through the area.