Dark Fleet

The “dark fleet” refers to a network of ships that operate covertly to avoid detection and regulation, often by disabling tracking systems like AIS (Automatic Identification System), falsifying documentation, or using deceptive practices such as ship-to-ship transfers at sea.

These vessels are typically involved in activities such as transporting sanctioned oil, avoiding environmental regulations, or participating in illegal fishing. The term has gained prominence amid efforts to enforce sanctions on countries like Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, as many of their oil exports are now carried via these shadowy operations, raising concerns about maritime safety, environmental risks, and global security.