The Indian Navy is not just focussing on security from China and Pakistan, but consistently marking its prominence in the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. Its commendable efforts are recognized across the globe. Since November 2023, it has rescued 110 individuals from the perils of pirates and other maritime dangers.
Let's delve into the Navy's future plans, charted out from its historic strides...
The strategic decision to establish INS Jatayu naval base on Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep was a calculated move. Plans are set for an airstrip and around-the-clock operational helicopter hangar. The Air Force has been allotted land to build a radar station here. Another naval base, INS Dweep Rakshak, graces Kavaratti Island, significantly empowering the naval forces.
Read about America deploying its first squadron of F-35 jets on its eastern coast to curb activities from Russia, China, North Korea...
Moreover, the inaugural squadron of INAS-334 Seahawk helicopters was formed, featuring MH-60R Romeo helicopters from the US. Out of the 24, six have been delivered, showcasing this exceptional squadron's anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Present in the Campbell Bay are the advanced Kalvari class submarines.
Source: aajtak
This area is a significant thoroughfare for Chinese shipping, and for the first time, the Navy stationed 11 submarines, 35 warships, and five aircraft simultaneously. In the Arabian Sea alone, eight submarines were part of this monumental exercise. Both aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, participated in joint exercises.
A critical defense deal of 19,000 crores for over 200 BrahMos cruise missiles signifies the Navy's modernization efforts. INS Sandhyak, the first of four survey vessels, was commissioned. New infrastructure development is underway at INS Karwar and INS Kadamba.
Read about China's deployment of its lethal stealth bomber as a bold response to the US...
What has the Navy accomplished since November?
Since November, the Indian Navy has been active in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Aden...
December 14, 2023... MV Ruen hijacking averted, seafarers rescued from hijackers. December 23, 2023... MV Chem Pluto was attacked by drones. The Navy responded immediately. January 4, 2024... Highjacking of MV Leila Norfolk foiled. January 17, 2024... Swift action post drone/missile assault on MV Jenko Picardy. January 26, 2024... Missile attack on MV Marlin Luanda, Navy's quick response. January 27/29, 2024... Thwarted hijacking of SLFV Lorena Putha. January 28/29, 2024... Hijacking averted on FV Imaan and El Naimee. January 29, 2024... Foiled hijacking of FV Omari. February 22, 2024... Missile attack on MV Islander, immediate Navy action. March 4, 2024... MV MSC Sky-2 missile attack, Navy's prompt response. March 6, 2024... Prevented missile attack on MV True Confidence. March 29, 2024... Crew of Al-Kambar ship rescued, 9 pirates captured.
Source: aajtak
A total of 45 Indian and 65 foreign nationals were rescued
These operations in the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea boasted 21 combat ships and over 100 days of thwarting hijackings, rescuing people, and capturing pirates.
Which warships were deployed during this tenure?
Warships such as INS Chennai, INS Kolkata, INS Sumedha, INS Vishakhapatnam, INS Tarkash, INS Sumitra, INS Shardul, and INS Subhadra, amounting to 21 in total, were deployed. Integrated helicopter facilities were part of 10 of these mighty vessels. The Navy's commandos were air-dropped using Air Force C-17 planes for mid-sea operations before deploying them via boats for their missions.
