The recent bold operation executed by the Indian Navy to rescue a commercial ship from pirates off the coast of Somalia has drawn praise from military analysts, highlighting India’s elite defense capabilities on the global stage. CNN, citing multiple analysts, reported on the magnitude of the operation.
Over nearly two days, the Indian Navy successfully rescued 17 crew members from the MV Ruen during an anti-piracy operation, with no casualties reported. Approximately 35 pirates surrendered and were apprehended by Indian naval forces.
This complex operation involved a coordinated effort utilizing various assets, including a navy destroyer, a patrol ship, an Indian Air Force C-17 transporter tasked with deploying marine commandos, as well as naval and reconnaissance drones, and a P-8 surveillance jet, as outlined in a statement by the Indian Navy.
John Bradford, an International Affairs fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, commended the operation, stating, “The success of the operation marks the Indian Navy as a top-class force in terms of training, command and control, and other capabilities.” He emphasized the coordinated use of different resources, minimizing risks and maximizing efficiency.
Concerns have been raised regarding the security situation in the Red Sea, with attacks by Yemen-based Houthi rebels posing a threat to commercial shipping. This volatile environment could potentially provide Somali pirates in the nearby Horn of Africa with opportunities to target vessels, posing significant risks to the global economy, according to CNN.
Despite being among the region’s poorest nations, Yemen and Somalia have been grappling with years of civil unrest. The hijacking of the MV Ruen in December last year marked the first successful seizure of a vessel off Somalia’s coast since 2017.
Indian naval forces, alongside Spanish and Japanese counterparts, tracked the MV Ruen into Somali territorial waters following its capture. When the vessel, now under pirate control, attempted to engage in piracy on the high seas, the Indian Navy intervened.
Utilizing sophisticated technology and tactics, including ship-launched drones and decisive naval firepower, the Indian Navy disabled the MV Ruen’s steering and navigation systems, compelling the pirates to surrender.
The professionalism of the Indian Navy, particularly its marine commando force known as MARCOS, has been highlighted by analysts. With over two decades of experience in anti-piracy operations, India remains committed to ensuring maritime security in one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes.
The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated India’s commitment to maritime security in the region, emphasizing the protection of economic interests and the safety of commercial vessels. As India continues to monitor the evolving security landscape, its naval forces stand ready to uphold peace and stability in the maritime domain.