Chaos in Red Sea: Greek Bulker ‘Tutor’ Hit by Houthi Drones and Air Strikes, Taking on Water

On June 12, 2024, a Greek-owned bulk carrier, the “Tutor,” was subjected to multiple attacks by Houthi forces while navigating south in the Red Sea, en route to India. The vessel is currently “not under command” and is awaiting assistance from coalition forces in the region.

The incident occurred approximately 66 nautical miles southwest of Hudaydah, Yemen, near the northern end of the Bab el-Mandeb strait. The UK Maritime Trade Organization (UKMTO) reported that the first attack involved a small craft, believed to be a surface drone, which struck the stern of the Tutor. This vessel, with a deadweight tonnage of 82,357, was built in 2022 and is registered in Liberia. It is currently managed by Evalend Shipping, based in Athens, Greece.

This incident marks the first successful Houthi attack using a surface drone, analysts suggest. These drones are capable of carrying substantial payloads, posing a significant threat to maritime vessels.

Following the initial explosion, unconfirmed reports indicated a fire in the engine room. The master of the vessel informed UKMTO that the 751-foot (229 meters) long bulker was taking on water. Subsequently, the vessel was reportedly struck twice from the air by unknown airborne projectiles.

Officials from Greece’s Ministry of Shipping confirmed that the vessel sustained two further hits from the air. The exact number of crew members aboard and their status remains unclear. The Houthi group claimed responsibility for the attack, citing the shipping company’s alleged entry into banned ports, including Israel.

According to a report prepared by the International Maritime Organization for the UN Security Council, seen by Middle Eastern Eye, the Houthi have attacked 28 vessels in the first five months of 2024. These vessels are registered under various flags, including the Marshall Islands, Panama, Malta, Greece, Singapore, Portugal, and Palau. Notably, three U.S.-registered vessels, likely from the Maersk Line Ltd., are among the targets.

In recent days, the Houthi have escalated their attacks, claiming further targeting of Israeli ports Haifa and Ashod. However, there are no confirmed reports of disturbances in these areas.

U.S. Central Command has been actively countering these threats. Yesterday, they reported downing two anti-ship cruise missiles and, tonight, announced the destruction of three anti-ship cruise missile launchers and one uncrewed aerial system (UAS) in a Houthi-controlled area of Yemen. They also reported the launch of two anti-ship ballistic missiles over the Red Sea.

Sources:

• UK Maritime Trade Organization (UKMTO)
• U.S. Central Command
• International Maritime Organization
• Middle Eastern Eye

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