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As drone and missile attacks continue to threaten commercial shipping, defense companies are developing new weapon systems that could help merchant ships defend themselves against aerial and surface threats.

Commercial shipping companies are facing growing risks when operating in dangerous waters. In areas such as the Black Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, merchant vessels have become targets of drone and missile attacks.

For some shipowners, these attacks have become an accepted risk of operating on high-revenue shipping routes. However, the consequences can be serious, including damaged ships, interrupted operations and injuries or deaths among crew members.

Now, defense companies are looking at another option: installing defensive weapon systems directly onto commercial ships.

New weapon systems for merchant vessels

At this year's Euronaval exhibition, two major defense companies, BAE Systems and Aselsan, presented modular gun systems designed for installation on merchant ships.

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Rotterdam's Marine Fuel Market

The most dramatic recent movement in Rotterdam's Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) market occurred in late February and early March 2026, triggered by the outbreak of war between the United States and Iran. This geopolitical shock directly impacted the Strait of Hormuz—a waterway through which nearly 20% of global oil flows—sending shockwaves through global energy markets and marine fuel pricing .

In the final week of February 2026, Rotterdam MDO prices stood at approximately $715/mt. However, following the outbreak of hostilities, prices skyrocketed. By March 3, 2026, MDO delivered in Rotterdam was assessed at $957.50/mt, representing a staggering $242.25/mt increase (nearly 34%) in just four trading days . This marked the highest price level since 2023.

The price surge was driven by a combination of immediate supply disruption fears and actual tightening of physical supply. The Strait of Hormuz crisis constrained bunker fuel availability across major hubs,…

LNG Marine Engines: A Cleaner Future for Shipping

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) marine engines are becoming increasingly important in the modern shipping industry. They use LNG as fuel, which burns cleaner than traditional marine fuels like heavy fuel oil. This significantly reduces emissions of sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide, helping ships meet strict international environmental regulations. LNG engines also improve fuel efficiency and reduce engine noise and vibration. However, they require specialized storage tanks and fueling infrastructure on ships and at ports. As global shipping moves toward sustainability, LNG marine engines are seen as a practical transitional technology that supports cleaner and more efficient maritime transportation.

FAQs

What is an LNG marine engine?

An LNG marine engine is a ship engine that uses liquefied natural gas as its primary fuel instead of conventional marine fuels.

1. Strait of Hormuz disruption stops marine activity

• The Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil passes, has effectively been closed or extremely dangerous for shipping.

• Tankers and commercial vessels are anchored or avoiding the area, and many insurers cancelled war-risk coverage for ships.

• More than 200 vessels are waiting around the strait because they cannot safely transit.

For offshore contractors and dredgers this means:

Vessels marked as China owner and crew pass Hormuz.