The Iranian government says it is building three aframax tankers as part of a new 100-vessel shipbuilding plan.

The 113,000-dwt ships are on order at the Sadra yard, which is owned by state-controlled Khatam al-Anbia Construction Base.

The Mehr news agency cited the base's commander, Brigadier General Ebadollah Abdullahi, as saying work on the trio is underway.

He added that an agreement has been signed with the oil and industry ministries to construct 100 vessels, 30 of which will be built at Sadra.