Ship With 20 Indians Attacked By Drones Off India’s Coast; Navy Warship Moving In, Contact Established | Updates
The Indian Navy’s P-81 maritime surveillance aircraft and Indian Coast Guard vessels have successfully established communication with the distressed merchant vessel, MV Chem Pluto, after taking off from the INS Hansa naval air base in Goa. A navy warship is currently en route to the attacked ship in the Arabian Sea off India’s coast and is expected to reach it within the next few hours, according to navy officials.
An alarming incident unfolded when the MV Chem Pluto was hit by a drone, resulting in a devastating explosion and fire aboard the vessel. The attack occurred approximately 200 nautical miles (about 370 km) from Veraval, in Gujarat’s Gir Somnath district, according to officials from the United Kingdom Trade Operations (UKMTO).
In response to the situation, the Indian Navy promptly dispatched their P-81 aircraft for maritime surveillance, ensuring effective communication with the distressed crew on board the MV Chem Pluto. Simultaneously, Indian Coast Guard vessels were deployed to provide support and assistance.
The safety and well-being of the crew are our utmost priority, and our naval assets are actively engaged in coordinating efforts to swiftly reach and rescue the distressed vessel, stated Commander Rahul Sinha, spokesperson for the Indian Navy.
The nature and motive behind the drone attack on the MV Chem Pluto remain unknown at this time. Investigations are underway, with authorities committed to uncovering the details surrounding the incident.
As word spread about the attack, concerns arose regarding the increasing significance of drones as potential threats to maritime security. Experts believe this incident will prompt a reassessment of security protocols and the need for enhanced countermeasures against such attacks.
Captain Ramesh Nair, a maritime security analyst, shared his perspective on the matter, stating, This alarming incident highlights the evolving threat landscape where rogue actors can employ unmanned aerial vehicles to target vulnerable vessels. It is imperative for maritime authorities to develop comprehensive strategies to detect, deter, and respond effectively to such threats.
With maritime trade routes playing a crucial role in global commerce, the incident has captured international attention. Industry stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for collaboration between nations to safeguard sea lanes and protect maritime assets.
As the Indian Navy’s warship inches closer to the attacked vessel, hopes for a successful rescue operation rise. The crew members of the MV Chem Pluto, stranded in a precarious situation, anxiously await the arrival of the navy personnel, who will provide the necessary assistance and ensure their safe evacuation.
In an ever-changing world, where technology continues to evolve, incidents like this remind us of the evolving challenges faced by nations and the importance of maintaining a robust security apparatus at sea.
The Indian Navy, supported by the Indian Coast Guard, remains vigilant in their efforts to secure the waters and protect the interests of the nation and its seafarers.
