Copenhagen, Denmark | December 19, 2025 – Global Fuel Supply (GFS), a leading bunkering and marine energy solutions provider, has marked a historic turning point in its corporate evolution, announcing its move from reliance on chartered tonnage to ownership of its first bunker tanker, strengthening its bunkering and oil trading operations. The Copenhagen-based marine fuel specialist has acquired its first owned tanker, a move designed to anchor its physical bunker supply presence and provide unparalleled operational control in the high-growth West African corridor.
The acquisition of the 7,695 DWT vessel signals the end of GFS’s reliance on third-party chartered tonnage, such as the RLO Explorer, and the beginning of a new era of asset-heavy strategic growth.
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Technical Evolution: Bringing “Singapore Standards” to Angola
The vessel, currently named MV Atticus, is scheduled to be renamed MV Blue Alliance upon the completion of an extensive technical overhaul. Currently situated in Dubai, the tanker will undergo a series of upgrades in dry dock that will set a new technological benchmark for the Angolan bunker market:
- Mass flow meter (MFM) Integration: In a move that mirrors the transparency mandates of global hubs like Singapore and Rotterdam, the MV Blue Alliance will become the first MFM-equipped bunker vessel operating in Angola. This installation is specifically designed to eliminate “cappuccino effect” disputes and provide customers with certified, real-time measurement accuracy.
- Environmental & Safety Upgrades: The vessel will be fitted with a state-of-the-art Ballast Water Treatment System (BWTS) to comply with international MARPOL regulations. The dry-docking program also includes comprehensive technical and safety-related works to prepare the 2008-built tanker for its new role as a flagship asset.
A Vision Realized: Leadership Reflections
For the founders of GFS, the move into ship ownership is the fulfillment of a long-term strategic roadmap intended to secure the company’s independence in the global supply chain.
“This is a moment of great pride for our company,” said Bijan Shahbaz, COO and Founder of Global Fuel Supply. “I want to thank our entire team, as this achievement would not have been possible without their hard work and commitment. 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.”
“For many of us in shipping, becoming shipowners is a long-held ambition,” said Jesper Rasmussen, Senior Fuel Supplier at Global Fuel Supply. “With this acquisition, that ambition becomes reality. This marks the first chapter of our journey as shipowners, and I am proud to be part of that journey and to have contributed to this important milestone.”
“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.”
From a commercial standpoint, GFS said the acquisition reflects a broader strengthening of its position across the bunker value chain.
Entry Into Service and Regional Focus
Upon completion of the dry-docking works, the vessel will undertake her maiden voyage from the UAE to Luanda, marking her formal entry into service as part of GFS’ owned fleet. The deployment represents a key step in strengthening the company’s operational footprint in West Africa.
Vessel Specifications: MV Blue Alliance
- New Name: MV Blue Alliance (ex. MV Atticus)
- 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
- Key Tech: Integrated Mass Flow Meter (MFM)
About Global Fuel Supply (GFS)
Global Fuel Supply is a forward-thinking bunkering and marine fuel solutions provider with a proven track record of delivering high-quality products and reliable services. Through continuous innovation and a commitment to operational excellence, GFS has established itself as a trusted partner in the global maritime industry, ensuring vessels receive the fuel they need efficiently and sustainably.
This latest move underscores GFS’s continued investment in strategic locations, further solidifying its role as a trusted bunkering partner in the global maritime industry.
Source: Global Fuel Supply