Indian Navy swiftly responds to pirates, deploys stealth-guided missile destroyer
The Indian Navy’s Swift Response to Hijacking Attempt
The Indian Navy wasted no time when a report surfaced about a ship being hijacked by pirates off the coast of Somalia in the North Arabian Sea. In a bold move, they immediately dispatched a stealth-guided missile destroyer, INS Chennai, to handle the situation.
The hijackers, however, fled before the INS Chennai arrived at the scene to confront the MV Lila Norfolk. The Indian Navy confirmed that all 21 crew members, including 15 Indians, were safely evacuated and the hijackers were no longer present. They stated, ”The attempt of hijacking by the pirates was probably abandoned with the forceful warning by the #IndianNavy MPA of interception by Indian Naval warship. #INSChennai is in the vicinity of MV and rendering support to restore the power generation & propulsion, and commence her voyage to the next port of call.”
#IndianNavy‘s Swift Response to the Hijacking Attempt of MV Lila Norfolk in the North Arabian Sea.
All 21 crew (incl #15Indians) onboard safely evacuated from the citadel.Sanitisation by MARCOs has confirmed the absence of the hijackers.
The attempt of hijacking by the pirates… https://t.co/OvudB0A8VV pic.twitter.com/616q7avNjg
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) January 5, 2024
The Indian Navy revealed that the INS Chennai had maintained constant surveillance on the Norfolk using MPA, Predator MQ9B, and integral helicopters.
#INSChennai diverted from #AntiPiracy patrol intercepted MV Lila Norfolk at 1515h on #05Jan 2024.
MV was kept under continuous surveillance using MPA, Predator MQ9B & integral helos.#IndianNavy MARCOs present onboard the Mission Deployed warship boarded MV & commenced… https://t.co/gotHLCZL5e— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) January 5, 2024
Recently, there has been an increase in attempted ship hijackings in the Middle East. In late December, U.S. Navy helicopters took down three Iranian-backed Houthi small boats that were attacking a merchant ship in the Red Sea, as reported by the Pentagon.
On December 31, at 6:30 a.m. local time, the Maersk Hangzhou, a Singapore-flagged and Denmark-owned container vessel, issued a distress call regarding four Iranian-backed Houthi small boats. The boats, originating from Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, fired weapons at the Maersk Hangzhou and attempted to board the ship. However, the contracted security team on the vessel fought back.
In response to the distress call, U.S. helicopters from the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier and USS Gravely guided-missile destroyer arrived at the scene. While issuing verbal warnings to the Houthi boats, the aggressors fired upon the U.S. aircraft. In self-defense, the U.S. Navy helicopters returned fire, sinking three of the four small boats and eliminating the crews. The fourth boat managed to escape, and there were no casualties or damage to U.S. personnel or equipment.
Daniel Chaitin contributed to this article.
Related: U.S. Forces Sink Houthi Boats In Red Sea, Pentagon Says
What technologies did the Indian Navy deploy to maintain surveillance of the hijacked vessel in the North Arabian Sea?
Ter.com/hashtag/04Jan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”> #04Jan after it was reported hijacked in the North Arabian Sea. MPA, Predator MQ9B and integral helicopters were airborne to maintain constant surveillance of the vessel since then. #IndianNavy
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) January 5, 2024
The prompt response by the Indian Navy highlights their commitment to the safety and security of maritime trade routes. Hijacking attempts pose a significant threat to global trade, and it is crucial for naval forces to swiftly intervene to protect the lives of crew members and prevent any disruption to commerce.
Modern technologies, such as the surveillance drones and helicopters deployed by the Indian Navy, play a vital role in monitoring vessels and detecting any suspicious activity. This enables naval forces to respond quickly and effectively in potential hijacking situations.
The successful evacuation of all crew members from the MV Lila Norfolk demonstrates the professionalism and efficiency of the Indian Navy in handling such crises. It is a testament to their rigorous training and preparedness to tackle maritime security threats.
The Indian Navy’s swift response also sends a stern message to pirates and other potential hijackers that their actions will not go unanswered. The presence of INS Chennai and the warning by Indian Naval warships serve as deterrence, ensuring the safety of not only Indian vessels but also all ships navigating through piracy-prone waters.
Furthermore, the Indian Navy’s commitment to restoring power generation and propulsion on the MV Lila Norfolk, as well as providing support for its onward journey, showcases their dedication to maintaining a secure and smooth flow of maritime trade.
It is important for international maritime organizations and navies worldwide to collaborate and share information to effectively combat piracy and hijacking attempts. The Indian Navy’s vigilance and swift response serve as an example for other naval forces to follow in the fight against maritime security threats.
In conclusion, the Indian Navy’s immediate response to the hijacking attempt off the coast of Somalia demonstrates their unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of maritime trade. Through their swift intervention, deployment of advanced surveillance technologies, and successful evacuation of the MV Lila Norfolk’s crew members, they have effectively prevented a potentially catastrophic situation. Their actions not only protect the lives of seafarers but also safeguard the global economy by maintaining seamless trade routes. The Indian Navy’s response serves as an inspiration for other naval forces to be proactive and resolute in combating maritime security threats.
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