The Indian Navy has increased its maritime security operations in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict since December 2023. They have been involved in 18 incidents and have been crucial in protecting the Indian Ocean Region.
Naval ships, aircraft, and special forces have been working tirelessly to secure the seas and protect the maritime community from various threats in the region. The Indian Navy played a key role in stopping the hijacking of MV Ruen.
The Indian Navy is conducting maritime security operations in three areas: the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian Sea, and off the east coast of Somalia. They have deployed over 5,000 personnel at sea, over 450 ship days, and 900 hours of flying by maritime surveillance aircraft to address threats.
Piracy has been a growing concern in the Indian Ocean Region since 2008. The Indian Navy has taken the lead in responding to security threats, saving lives, escorting critical commodities, conducting boarding operations, seizing narcotics, and ensuring the safety of merchant vessels.
The Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) in Gurugram has played a crucial role in enabling information exchange in the region. Coordinated missions with other agencies have highlighted the synergy and interoperability of different services.
The Indian Navy’s efforts under ‘Op Sankalp’ have received international acclaim for safeguarding India’s maritime interests, countering threats, preventing piracy, and reducing narcotics trade in the region. The safety of life at sea remains a top priority for the Indian Navy.
