The Indian Navy has intensified its maritime surveillance operations in the Arabian Sea in response to the increasing number of attacks on merchant vessels navigating through the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the central/north Arabian Sea.
To bolster maritime security, the Navy has deployed task groups consisting of destroyers and frigates. These units are tasked with carrying out maritime security operations and providing assistance to merchant vessels during incidents. This move aims to ensure safer passage for international shipping lanes that are critical for global trade.
"Aerial surveillance by long-range maritime patrol aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft has been enhanced to have complete maritime domain awareness. Towards effective surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the Indian Navy is operating in close coordination with the Indian Coast Guard," the Navy reported.
Highlighting the urgency of these measures, the Navy pointed to incidents involving MV Ruen and MV Chem Pluto, which signify a shift in maritime security threats closer to India's EEZ. In response, the Navy has deployed the P-8I long-range patrol aircraft for extensive surveillance. Additionally, warships such as INS Mormugao, INS Kochi, and INS Kolkata have been positioned in the region to reinforce security and quick response capabilities.
These enhanced measures by the Indian Navy underscore its commitment to safeguarding maritime interests and ensuring the safety of vital shipping routes in the Arabian Sea.