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India's Anti-Piracy Operations: A Maritime Security Strategy in 2024

Enhancing Regional Security through Naval Vigilance

India's Anti-Piracy Operations: A Maritime Security Strategy in 2024

  • 21 Jul, 2024
  • 339

Overview of Recent Anti-Piracy Operations

In 2024, the Indian Navy undertook a series of significant anti-piracy operations, showcasing its commitment to maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. Below are the key operations that highlight India's vigilance and operational readiness.

1. Anti-Piracy Operation (March 15-16, 2024)

Objective: The primary goal was to rescue the hijacked merchant vessel ex-MV Ruen and its crew from Somali pirates.
Action: A collaborative effort between the Indian Navy and Air Force led to the surrender of 35 Somali pirates and the safe evacuation of 17 crew members.
Key Elements:

  • INS Kolkata: Successfully intercepted and disabled the pirate ship.
  • Indian Air Force: Conducted air-drops of Marine Commandos and essential equipment.

Outcome: The operation was a resounding success, reinforcing India’s role as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region.

2. Increased Maritime Surveillance (Late 2023)

Objective: To effectively counter the escalating threats of drone attacks and piracy in the Central and North Arabian Sea.
Action: Deployment of destroyers and frigates was complemented by enhanced aerial surveillance efforts.
Outcome: This initiative significantly bolstered maritime security and protected merchant vessels operating in the region.

3. Anti-Piracy Operations by INS Sumitra (January 2024)

Objective: To rescue crew members from hijacked ships located off the East Coast of Somalia.
Action: Two successful operations resulted in the rescue of a total of 36 crew members from Somali pirates.
Outcome: These operations showcased the Indian Navy's vigilance and precision in addressing piracy threats.

Significance of These Operations

The anti-piracy operation conducted by the Indian Navy on March 15-16, 2024, has significantly enhanced India’s status as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region. This mission demonstrated India's capability to execute complex maritime security operations beyond its immediate coastline.

By intercepting and disabling the pirate ship ex-MV Ruen, the Indian Navy illustrated its operational readiness and dedication to securing international shipping lanes. The successful rescue of 17 crew members, coupled with the surrender of 35 Somali pirates, underscores the effectiveness of the coordinated efforts between the Indian Navy and the Air Force.

These operations, alongside other recent maritime security interventions, reflect India’s proactive approach to combating piracy and ensuring the safety of vital maritime regions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What was the main objective of the anti-piracy operation in March 2024?
Answer: The main objective was to rescue the hijacked merchant vessel ex-MV Ruen and its crew members from Somali pirates.

Q2. How many Somali pirates were surrendered during the March 2024 operation?
Answer: A total of 35 Somali pirates surrendered during the successful rescue operation conducted by the Indian Navy and Air Force.

Q3. What role did the Indian Air Force play in these operations?
Answer: The Indian Air Force aided the operations by air-dropping Marine Commandos and equipment to support the rescue missions.

Q4. Why are these anti-piracy operations significant for India?
Answer: They enhance India's position as a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region and demonstrate its capability in conducting complex maritime operations.

Q5. What was achieved by the INS Sumitra operations in January 2024?
Answer: The INS Sumitra conducted two successful operations that rescued a total of 36 crew members from hijacked ships off the East Coast of Somalia.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What was the outcome of the anti-piracy operation on March 15-16, 2024?
A) 35 Somali pirates were captured
B) 17 crew members were rescued
C) Both A and B
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: C

Question 2: Which ship was involved in the March 2024 anti-piracy operation?
A) INS Kolkata
B) ex-MV Ruen
C) INS Sumitra
D) None of the above
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What type of surveillance was increased in late 2023?
A) Aerial surveillance
B) Submarine surveillance
C) Ground surveillance
D) Satellite surveillance
Correct Answer: A

Question 4: How many crew members were rescued by INS Sumitra in January 2024?
A) 25
B) 36
C) 50
D) 40
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: What was the primary threat that the Indian Navy aimed to counter in its recent operations?
A) Drug trafficking
B) Piracy
C) Human trafficking
D) Terrorism
Correct Answer: B

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