A recent report by Windward reveals a vessel breached the US blockade on Iranian ports. On April 14, an Iranian-flagged landing craft departed Abbas Port, entering the Gulf of Oman. Additionally, a large oil tanker, falsely flagged and under sanctions, was detected navigating Iranian waters, indicating ongoing maritime activity despite US restrictions.
Hensoldt UK is enhancing maritime security by deploying 50 new solid-state radar systems for improved coastal surveillance amid rising geopolitical tensions. This initiative, part of a national surveillance network, aims to enhance monitoring and situational awareness, enabling authorities to effectively detect and manage maritime activities. Installation is set for 2026.
On January 9, the UK’s Maritime & Coastguard Agency faced a challenging night due to a severe winter storm, classified as a bomb cyclone. With wind gusts reaching 99 mph, 24 containers fell overboard, prompting extensive search efforts. Shipping operations were disrupted, affecting services to the Isle of Wight and cross-channel routes.
Delegates at the TUC Congress from September 7-10, 2025, unanimously endorsed Nautilus International’s motion on “Future-Proofing UK Maritime Skills and Training.” The motion calls for full government support in maritime training, including 100% SMarT funding and a national training provider, emphasizing the urgent need for skilled maritime professionals.
The UK Department for Transport has launched a Maritime Decarbonisation Strategy to cut greenhouse gas emissions in domestic maritime transport. The goal is zero fuel lifecycle GHG emissions by 2050, with interim targets of 30% reduction by 2030 and 80% reduction by 2040. The strategy focuses on smaller vessels below 400GT with clear pathways to decarbonisation.
