Several Indian Navy warships deployed to deter pirates in Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden
New Delhi, January 12 – In an effort to combat piracy and drone strikes, the Indian Navy has intensified its presence by deploying nearly 10 frontline warships, equipped with marine commandos, in the north and central Arabian Sea to the Gulf of Aden. The move aims to showcase the Indian Navy’s strength and deter any potential incidents at sea. The warships, which include indigenous destroyers, frigates, and offshore patrol vessels, are primarily focused on preventing piracy and drone attacks on merchant vessels near the coast of Somalia, according to navy officials.
Recent attacks on Indian merchant ships in the Arabian Sea have compelled the Indian Navy to take proactive measures. Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of Naval Staff, stated, We are now, very proactively, deploying our units there to ensure that the pirates are kept at bay. If you look at the last 40-42 days, about 35 such attacks have taken place, largely on Israeli-owned shipping assets. No India-flagged vessel has been attacked so far. He further added, Anti-piracy operations were conducted in the wake of only two such incidents. In both cases, the vessels were not India-flagged. However, in the second incident, there were Indian crew members on board the ship because of which we had to respond. We got the necessary consent from the owners of the vessel and rescued the distressed crew.
The Indian Navy is closely monitoring the situation and analyzing debris from drones retrieved from three ships to identify the source of the attacks. The Navy chief highlighted the need for continued vigilance and the challenges in identifying the origin of these attacks.
By dispatching these major warships to the region, the Indian Navy aims to demonstrate its commitment to safety and security on the high seas. The presence of marine commandos further reinforces their deterrence strategy. The deployment not only safeguards Indian merchant vessels but also ensures the protection of international trade routes in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden. The Navy’s proactive approach signifies India’s commitment to maritime security in the region.
The move comes as a response to the escalating incidents of piracy and drone attacks in the area. The Indian Navy’s efforts to safeguard vessels and neutralize threats are crucial in maintaining peace and stability in the region. With the deployment of these warships, the Indian Navy aims to create a strong deterrent against piracy and drone strikes, thereby ensuring the safety of maritime trade and the protection of vital national and international interests.
The deployment of Indian Navy warships is a significant step towards countering piracy and drone threats and underscores India’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. The continued presence of these warships will undoubtedly contribute to the safety and security of the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden, while also reassuring the international community of India’s dedication to combating piracy and ensuring the free flow of maritime trade.
The Indian Navy’s deployment of warships in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden reaffirms its role as a responsible maritime power. The presence of these frontline vessels, along with the expertise of marine commandos, serves as a strong message to potential threats in the region. By actively deterring piracy and responding swiftly to any incidents at sea, the Indian Navy is playing a crucial role in protecting vital trade routes and preserving maritime security in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
