Drone Strike Damages Ship-to-Shore Crane at Oman Port
30 Second Takeaway
Drones struck the Port of Salalah in Oman on March 28, 2026, damaging a ship-to-shore crane and injuring one port worker. The port was evacuated and operations temporarily suspended. Maersk initially estimated a 48-hour stoppage; operations began gradually resuming on March 31. Oman said no party had claimed responsibility for the attack.
Incident Overview
Port of Salalah, Oman
A drone attack damaged a terminal crane at the Port of Salalah in the early hours of Saturday, March 28. The terminal, operated by Maersk’s APM Terminals, was evacuated and operations were suspended while authorities and the port assessed the incident.
One port worker was injured. Maersk confirmed that its crews were safe and accounted for, and that no Maersk vessels or cargo were affected.
What Happened
Based on information available at the time of publication:
Oman’s state news agency, citing a security source, reported that two drones targeted the Port of Salalah.
One ship-to-shore crane sustained damage, with its boom brought down.
One port worker was injured.
The terminal was evacuated and operations temporarily suspended.
Maersk initially estimated that operations would be paused for about 48 hours.
Operations began gradually resuming on March 31, with some constraints expected during the recovery.
Oman said no party had claimed responsibility for the attacks on its territory.
What Is Known
Equipment involved: Ship-to-shore container crane
Port operator: Maersk’s APM Terminals
Location: Port of Salalah, Oman
Incident type: Drone attack damaging port crane
Date: March 28, 2026
Injuries: One port worker injured
Vessels and cargo: Maersk reported no damage to its vessels or cargo
Operations: Temporarily suspended; gradual resumption began March 31
Responsibility: Not confirmed by Omani authorities
Early Observations
The incident caused damage to one terminal crane and interrupted port operations. Maersk said the affected area was limited. The company initially anticipated a suspension of approximately 48 hours, while its later update said operations would gradually resume on March 31.
Iranian forces said they had targeted a US support vessel at a considerable distance from Salalah. Oman said no party had claimed responsibility for attacks on its territory. The available information does not establish who was responsible for the drone strike on the port.
Why This Incident Was Possible
The incident involved an external security threat to port infrastructure. Publicly available information does not establish the drones’ precise flight path, the security measures in place or the full circumstances of the crane damage.
The incident’s effect on the port was limited, but it demonstrated how damage to a single piece of terminal equipment can require evacuation and temporarily interrupt operations.
Industry Reminder
Ports and terminals should have clear emergency procedures for security incidents affecting cranes and other critical infrastructure. Workers need a reliable way to receive alerts, evacuate affected areas and account for personnel.
Before damaged equipment returns to service, it should be isolated, inspected and cleared by qualified personnel in coordination with the relevant authorities.
Editorial Note
Crane Hub Global reports on crane accidents, equipment damage and lifting-related incidents to support industry awareness and learning.
This article is based on information available at the time of publication. The drone attack’s responsibility and the full circumstances remain unconfirmed.
How Port Crane Damage During Security Incidents Can Be Managed
Activate Emergency Procedures
Use established alert and evacuation procedures when a security incident threatens port personnel or equipment.
Account for Workers
Confirm that workers and contractors have left the affected area and identify anyone who may need assistance.
Isolate Damaged Equipment
Prevent operation of a crane that may have sustained structural or mechanical damage until it has been assessed.
Inspect Before Returning to Service
Have qualified personnel examine the crane and surrounding infrastructure, and coordinate clearance with port and security authorities.
Coordinate Operational Recovery
Assess damage, communicate service changes to port users and resume operations in stages when conditions permit.
