Iran bleeds the world's supertanker fleet "The IMO lists more than 30 supertankers, or very large crude carriers (VLCCs), that were damaged during the attacks, including on October 11 alone. The registered ships make up about 3.5% of the world's VLCC fleet. " —. Nerijus Adomaitis, Reuters, October 23, 2026 - ᅠ Each VLCC can carry about 2 million barrels of crude oil. Despite the enormous risk, shipowners are still willing to enter the Gulf, lured by daily freight rates exceeding $1 million. Iran is causing enormous economic damage to global shipping. ᅠ Subscribe to CSOFT Media for more information on the changing strategic landscape in West Asia.