Data compiled by Woofun AI shows that the U.S. military has allegedly established an unconventional ship-to-ship crude oil transfer network to sustain Gulf energy exports amid Strait of Hormuz tensions. Initiated in early May 2026, the operation involves at least 116 tankers and has facilitated the movement of approximately 90 million barrels of crude and petroleum products. Primary activity centers on international waters off Fujairah, UAE, and near Sohar, Oman, where satellite imagery confirms intensive anchorage patterns with over ten vessel groups operating simultaneously.

Participants reportedly disable AIS transponders to evade tracking, mirroring Iran’s sanction-evasion techniques. While the U.S. Department of Defense denies direct Central Command involvement in loading operations, the system relies on U.S. coordination for scheduling and surveillance support via drones and helicopters. Analysts characterize this as 'gray shipping,' noting it serves as an emergency supplement to the pre-war daily volume of 20 million barrels through the Strait, albeit with reduced efficiency.