In the grip of death to Mumbai Port: Captain Sukhshant Singh Sandhu Leads Shenlong’s Daring Voyage

March 12, 2026 3:49 PM

In the grip of death to Mumbai Port: Captain Sukhshant Singh Sandhu Leads Shenlong’s Daring Voyage

New Delhi/Mumbai: March 12, 2026
Amid Middle East war and fiery Strait of Hormuz, India scores cinematic triumph. Liberia-flagged tanker Shenlong, carrying 135,000 tonnes Saudi crude, safely docked Mumbai port—first commercial vessel post-war to brave hypersensitive sea route under Indian Captain Sukhshant Singh Sandhu.

‘Dark Mode’ Stealth Crossing

Entering Hormuz March 8 amid Iranian drones/missiles, Sandhu took bold call: Shut AIS (Automatic Identification System), vanishing from radar—”going dark” tactic used in warzones to evade enemies. Resurfaced safely next day, world breathed relief.

Captain & 29-Member Team’s Bravery

Sandhu commanded 29 crew (Indians, Pakistanis, Filipinos). Fully loaded with 135,335 metric tonnes crude, berthed Jawahar Deep terminal Wednesday noon—36-hour discharge to Mumbai’s Mahul refineries brings energy relief.

India’s Strategic Victory

India sources 50%+ oil/gas needs via Hormuz. While US/European/Israeli ships targeted, Indian tanker’s success stems from FM S. Jaishankar’s diplomacy securing safe passage with Iran—proves maritime skill, diplomatic savvy, crisis resilience.