Indian Navy Intensifies Maritime Surveillance Amid Rising Threats in Arabian Sea

New Delhi: The Indian Navy is ramping up its maritime surveillance efforts in the Central and North Arabian Sea after a recent string of attacks on merchant vessels targeting crucial international shipping lanes.

These incidents, attributed to Iran-backed Houthi rebels amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, have raised concerns as they inch closer to Indian shores. Notably, the piracy incident on MV Ruen just 700 nautical miles off the coast and the drone attack on MV Chem Pluto southwest of Gujarat highlight the shifting terrain of these attacks.

Undeterred, the Indian Navy has deployed task forces comprising destroyers and frigates to patrol the troubled waters and assist merchant vessels in distress. Long-range maritime patrol aircraft and drones are now diligently sweeping the skies, aiming for comprehensive aerial coverage.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar has emphasized the need for robust collaboration with the Indian Coast Guard for effective surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). He has also directed meticulous checks on suspicious vessels to ensure the safety of merchant ships and crew.

In the face of rising maritime threats, the Indian Navy remains vigilant, closely monitoring the situation and working in tandem with national agencies to guarantee the safe passage of merchant vessels through the vital Arabian Sea.