New York: The recent high-stakes operation conducted by the Indian Navy to rescue a commercial vessel from pirates off the coast of Somalia has garnered international attention, showcasing New Delhi’s military prowess and its ability to execute complex missions. Analysts, as reported by CNN, laud the Indian Navy for its demonstration of special forces capabilities on par with some of the most elite military units across the globe.
The successful rescue of 17 crew members from the MV Ruen, conducted over nearly two days without any casualties, underscores the Indian Navy’s preparedness and efficiency. The operation saw the surrender of approximately 35 pirates, who were subsequently taken into custody, according to statements from the Indian Navy.
Utilizing a comprehensive array of assets and resources, including a navy destroyer, a patrol ship, an Indian Air Force C-17 transporter for airdropping marine commandos, as well as naval and reconnaissance drones alongside a P-8 surveillance jet, the operation was a testament to meticulous planning and seamless coordination, notes John Bradford, an International Affairs fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations.
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“This operation highlights the Indian Navy’s top-tier training, command, and control capabilities,” Bradford emphasizes. “The integration of various platforms, from warships to drones, underscores the minimal risk approach adopted, showcasing the Indian Navy’s proficiency in executing such complex missions.”
Concerns over the security situation in the Red Sea, exacerbated by attacks from Yemen-based Houthi rebels on commercial vessels, have raised alarms among experts. They warn that this volatile environment could potentially embolden Somali pirates operating in the nearby Horn of Africa, posing significant economic risks globally.
Despite being among the poorest nations in the region, both Yemen and Somalia have been grappling with prolonged periods of civil unrest. The hijacking of the MV Ruen late last year marked the first successful piracy incident off Somalia’s coast since 2017, drawing attention from international naval forces.
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Spanish, Japanese, and Indian warships had been monitoring the situation closely, tracking the movements of the hijacked vessel as it ventured into Somali territorial waters. When the Ruen attempted to leave Somali waters with intentions of piracy, the Indian Navy swiftly intervened.
Deploying the INS Kolkata, equipped with sophisticated reconnaissance capabilities, the Indian Navy confirmed the presence of armed pirates onboard the Ruen. Following hostile actions from the pirates, including the destruction of a surveillance drone and firing upon the Indian warship, the INS Kolkata retaliated, effectively disabling the vessel’s navigation systems.
In a swift and coordinated effort, Indian marine commandos, parachuting into the scene after a 10-hour flight, alongside maritime forces, facilitated the surrender of the pirates. The decisive response from the Indian Navy effectively neutralized the threat posed by the pirates, as noted by CNN’s report on the incident.
Expressing gratitude for India’s decisive action, Bulgarian leaders, including President Rumen Radev, lauded the efforts of the Indian Navy in rescuing the hijacked vessel and its crew, which included Bulgarian citizens.
Analysts, such as Carl Schuster, a former US Navy captain, highlight the professionalism and proficiency of the Indian Navy, emphasizing the rigorous training regimen of its elite marine commando force, MARCOS, drawing parallels with renowned international counterparts.
With over two decades of experience in anti-piracy operations, the Indian Navy remains a pivotal actor in ensuring maritime security in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. As echoed by CNN, experts anticipate that the Indian Navy will continue to play a crucial role in maintaining stability in the region, safeguarding vital economic interests.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, reaffirmed India’s commitment to maritime security, emphasizing the ongoing vigilance of Indian naval forces in safeguarding commercial vessels and protecting economic interests in the region.
