Global Fuel Supply shifts from chartering to ownership with first bunker vessel purchase

Bunkering and marine fuel solutions provider Global Fuel Supply (GFS) on Thursday (18 December) said it has acquired its first owned tanker, marking a milestone as the company transitions from chartered tonnage to formally becoming a shipowner.

Until now, GFS has operated through chartered tonnage, including bunker tanker RLO Explorer. 

Ownership of a dedicated tanker enhances operational control and flexibility, supporting the company’s long-term commitment to the bunker and marine energy markets, particularly in West Africa, where GFS already has a well-established presence and active physical bunkering operations.

The vessel, currently named MV Atticus and scheduled to be renamed MV Blue Alliance, will enter dry dock in Dubai to undergo a series of technical upgrades prior to entering service under the GFS name. 

Among the planned upgrades include the installation of a mass flow meter (MFM), positioning the vessel to become the first MFM-equipped bunker vessel operating in Angola. The installation is intended to support accurate fuel measurement and enhance transparency in line with emerging industry standards. 

In addition, the vessel will be fitted with a ballast water treatment system in compliance with international environmental regulations. The dry dock programme will also include general technical and safety-related works to prepare the vessel for long-term service within GFS’s operational framework. 

“This is a moment of great pride for our company,” said Bijan Shahbaz, COO and Founder of Global Fuel Supply. 

“Becoming shipowners has always been part of our long-term vision, and this acquisition marks an important milestone as we close out 2025 and prepare for the next phase of our growth.”

From a commercial perspective, the acquisition reflects a broader strengthening of the company’s platform across the value chain.

“Commercially, acquiring this vessel is an important milestone, but the real achievement has been the road that took us here,” said Lamin Bara, CCO and Founder of Global Fuel Supply. 

“We built new partnerships and strengthened our operational foundation in ways that will define our future. What stands out most is our team, their dedication, expertise, and belief in our mission made this possible. Becoming shipowners was part of our long-term vision but achieving it with this level of professionalism and unity makes the moment even greater.”

Upon completion of the dry-docking works, the vessel will begin her maiden voyage from UAE to Luanda. 

The voyage will mark her formal entry into service as part of GFS’ owned fleet, representing a key step in strengthening the company’s existing operational presence in the West-Africa. 

Vessel Specifications

• Vessel name: MV Atticus (to be renamed MV Blue Alliance)
• IMO number: 9471173
• Length overall (LOA): 115 metres
• Length between perpendiculars (LBP): 109 metres
• Beam: 17.60 metres
• Deadweight: 7,695 metric tonnes
• Gross tonnage: 4,599
• Year built: 2008

Related: Global Fuel Supply launches physical bunker fuel supply operation in West Africa

Photo credit: Global Fuel Supply
Published: 19 December, 2025