Damaged HMM Namu to undergo repairs at Drydocks World Dubai

South Korean shipping company HMM is preparing to repair its Panama-flagged general cargo ship HMM Namu, alongside at Drydocks World Dubai in Jebel Ali, after the vessel was damaged by airborne objects in the Strait of Hormuz last week.
A South Korean government investigation concluded that two unidentified airborne objects caused an explosion and fire aboard the 38,000-dwt cargo vessel while it was transiting the strategic waterway. The incident left a 7m rupture in the hull, although none of the 24 crew members, including six South Koreans, were injured.
Investigators found the ship’s internal frame had bent inward while sections of the outer hull plating had warped outward. Damage was also identified in the engine-room floor, with some equipment affected by fire.
An HMM official told Korea’s Yonhap News: “We are reviewing the best way to carry out the repairs. It would be difficult to repair the vessel within one or two months.”
The vessel is reportedly anchored at Drydocks World Dubai, where HMM is assessing the availability of replacement parts locally.
South Korea’s presidential office said authorities were continuing efforts to identify those responsible for the attack and determine the type of airborne objects involved. Officials added that further measures would be considered once the investigation is complete.