• Industry News
  • February 11, 2026

Older Tankers, New Risks

Introduction

The recent resale of the 2003-built Nordic Pollux for $25M signals a profitable secondhand tanker market. However, the maritime security risks tied to aged vessels changing ownership must not be overlooked.

Industry context

Older vessels may lack modern compliance with ISPS Code, updated cyber defences, and physical security measures. In high-risk zones, such deficiencies expose operators to increased threats including piracy, illicit trafficking, and cyber intrusion. Newly acquired tankers entering operations without thorough vetting and upgrades may also compromise crew safety and disrupt routing protocols amid global geopolitical volatility.

Practical measures

  • Conduct full threat-based security audits before redeployment.
  • Deploy armed or unarmed maritime security personnel in high-risk zones.
  • Refresh onboard crew training and emergency response drills regularly.
  • Use real-time maritime intelligence and threat-led routing advisory.
  • Update onboard cybersecurity infrastructure and access controls.

Further resources

Learn more about our maritime protection services or explore how we assess risk across vessel lifecycles.

Source

Original article: Splash247: Nordic American cashes in on oldest Suezmax

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Prepared by MS Security Group — experts in vessel protection, anti-piracy, and counter-narcotics operations.

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