In response to the escalating maritime security situation in the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy executed a strategic aerial insertion of its MARCOS special forces operatives, bolstering its anti-piracy operations in the region.
The deployment, aimed at ensuring prompt action against maritime threats, underscores the Navy’s proactive stance in safeguarding vital sea lanes.
According to a statement released by the Indian Navy’s spokesperson on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the aerial insertion of MARCOS (Marine Commandos) special forces operatives was carried out by para dropping them alongside inflatable speedboats from a C-130 military transport aircraft.
The C-130 aircraft, belonging to the Indian Air Force (IAF), played a pivotal role in facilitating the operation, demonstrating seamless inter-service cooperation.
“In response to ongoing #MaritimeSecurity situation in #GulfofAden & #ArabianSea & to ensure prompt action against any maritime threat, #IndianNavy undertook airborne insertion of #SpecialForces, paradropping inflatable crafts & #MARCOs from C-130 in #Arabian Sea,” the Navy’s post on social media highlighted.
The Gulf of Aden has witnessed a resurgence in piracy incidents and emerging maritime security challenges, including drone and missile attacks on commercial vessels by Yemen-based Houthi militias. In recent months, the Indian Navy has thwarted multiple piracy attempts off the eastern coast of Somalia, underscoring its commitment to maintaining maritime security and stability in the region.
In early February, the Indian Navy successfully intervened to rescue crew members of Iranian-flagged fishing vessels targeted by pirates in the Gulf of Aden.
Notably, the naval patrol vessel INS Sharda intercepted and repelled a piracy attempt on the Iranian-flagged FV Omari, rescuing crew members of Pakistani and Iranian nationality. Additionally, INS Sumitra thwarted another piracy attempt targeting the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi, safeguarding the lives of its crew members.
Further highlighting the Navy’s swift response to maritime emergencies, a Palau-flagged vessel, MV Islander, came under attack, likely by a drone or missile, on February 22.
In a coordinated operation, an Indian Navy destroyer mission deployed in the Gulf of Aden promptly arrived at the scene to provide assistance. Navy’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists embarked on the distressed vessel to mitigate any residual risks, ensuring the safe transit of the vessel.
The Indian Navy’s proactive measures and rapid response capabilities reaffirm its role as a key stakeholder in safeguarding maritime security and promoting stability in critical sea lanes. As maritime threats evolve, the Navy remains vigilant and prepared to address emerging challenges to uphold the principles of freedom of navigation and secure global maritime trade routes.
