“Ambrey confirms the successful salvage of MT SOUNION following attack by Houthi militants.”

On 21 August 2024, the Greek owned, laden oil tanker MT SOUNION was targeted by Houthi militants in the southern Red Sea. Strikes from anti-ship missiles destroyed critical control systems, and the vessel lost propulsion. On August 22, all 29 crew members were safely evacuated by a European Naval Force (EUNAVFOR), Operation ASPIDES’ asset.

The following day, 23 August 2024, the Houthis boarded the vessel before detonating explosive charges on the main decks and bridge, which started 19 fires and breached her cargo tank tops.

The SOUNION was stricken 58 miles off the Yemeni coast, under close watch by Houthi mother ships and in easy range of all their weapon systems. A commercial salvage operation was launched by the vessel insurers, which was led by Ambrey.

Major diplomatic efforts were required; 200 specialists and equipment were assembled and conducted from a flotilla of seven salvage vessels supported by three EUNAVFOR ASPIDES’ naval assets and close air support. They successfully reached SOUNION and towed her to a safe and secluded location 150 miles to the north. The protection provided by EUNAVFOR was critical in providing the security required. Firefighting faced huge challenges with the heat and humidity of the Red Sea, meaning operations were primarily conducted at night. Over three challenging weeks, the fires were extinguished, cargo tanks patched and pressurised with inert gas, and the vessel declared safe.

The project to save the SOUNION was a complex salvage operation inside a sensitive military and security operation.

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