In a daring rescue operation, the Bharatiya Navy came to the aid of a vessel under attack in the Gulf of Aden. The incident occurred on March 4th, when a Liberian-flagged ship carrying 23 crew members fell victim to a drone or missile attack. Promptly responding to the distress call, INS Kolkata, a vessel deployed in the region for maritime security, rushed to the scene.
Upon arrival, INS Kolkata found the vessel ablaze, with its crew in urgent need of assistance. Despite the danger, a team of 12 specialized firefighters from INS Kolkata embarked on the burning ship in the early hours of March 5th. Their courageous efforts helped contain the fire and prevent further damage to the vessel.
Recognizing the potential threat of unexploded ordnance on board, a specialist explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team also boarded the vessel. Their expertise was crucial in assessing and mitigating any remaining risks to the crew and the ship’s integrity.
Among the 23 crew members rescued, 13 were Bharatiya nationals, highlighting the Bharatiya Navy’s commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring the safety of maritime trade routes. Escorted by the Bharatiya Navy, the vessel was guided to safe waters, away from the danger zone.
The Bharatiya Navy spokesperson emphasized the unwavering dedication of mission-deployed platforms in safeguarding merchant shipping and seafarers in the region. This successful rescue operation underscores the Bharatiya Navy’s resolve to maintain security and stability in vital maritime zones.
#IndianNavy swiftly responds to a Maritime Incident in #GulfofAden
Liberian-flagged MV #MSCSkyII transiting approximately 90 Nm South East of Aden was reported on fire due to drone/ missile attack PM 04 Mar.
#INSKolkata, mission deployed in the region for maritime security… pic.twitter.com/AG15Krocjr— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) March 5, 2024
The attack on the Liberian-flagged vessel comes amidst escalating tensions in the Gulf of Aden, with Houthi militants claiming responsibility. The Iran-aligned group has been targeting both merchant and military ships in the area, citing support for Hamas in its conflict with Israel.
Despite the challenges posed by such attacks, the United States Central Command confirmed that there were no injuries reported in this incident. However, the disruption caused by these assaults has forced many vessels to take longer routes, impacting global freight rates and maritime trade.
The resilience and swift action demonstrated by the Bharatiya Navy in rescuing the crew members highlight the importance of international cooperation in combating maritime threats. As tensions persist in the region, efforts to ensure the safety and security of shipping lanes remain paramount for global trade and maritime commerce.
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