In response to increasing attacks on merchant vessels in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and central/north Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy has bolstered maritime surveillance efforts. Task Groups, comprising destroyers and frigates, have been deployed to enhance maritime security operations and assist merchant vessels in case of incidents.
Navy chief Admiral R Hari Kumar issued directives to take all possible actions to improve security in the Arabian Sea region. The Navy is closely coordinating with the Indian Coast Guard, employing aerial surveillance by long-range maritime patrol aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPAs) to ensure complete maritime domain awareness.
The recent piracy incident on MV Ruen and the drone attack on MV Chem Pluto have prompted heightened vigilance. The Navy has deployed the P-8I long-range patrol aircraft for surveillance and positioned warships INS Mormugao, INS Kochi, and INS Kolkata in the region.
The Navy emphasizes its commitment to ensuring the safety of merchant shipping in the face of evolving maritime threats. The overall situation is being closely monitored in coordination with national maritime agencies.
