Operation Sankalp: India’s Bold Steps Towards Maritime Security

Overview of Maritime Operations

India has been actively engaging in various maritime operations to enhance security and counter piracy threats in critical regions. Here is a detailed look at some of the significant initiatives:

1. Operation Sankalp

• Objective: To address the resurgence of piracy in the waters near Somalia and ensure maritime security.
• Actions: Deployment of over 5,000 personnel and 20 ships, responding to more than 18 incidents, investigating over 250 vessels, and boarding more than 40.
• Significant Event: A successful rescue operation took place on March 15-16, 2024, where Indian naval commandos retook the hijacked MV Ruen, capturing 35 pirates and rescuing 17 crew members.

2. Response to Attempted Hijacking of Lila Norfolk (January 2024)

• Objective: To deter pirate attacks on commercial vessels.
• Action: Indian forces responded to the hijacking attempt, causing pirates to flee before naval commandos arrived.

3. Increased Maritime Surveillance (Late 2023)

• Objective: To counter rising drone attacks and piracy threats in the Central and North Arabian Sea.
• Action: Deployment of destroyers and frigates, along with enhanced aerial surveillance.

Significance of India's Maritime Initiatives

India's expanded role in counter-piracy operations, particularly through Operation Sankalp, underscores its commitment to maritime security and its capability to address piracy far from its shores. The Indian Navy's successful operations, such as the retaking of MV Ruen, highlight its operational readiness and effectiveness in ensuring the safety of international shipping lanes.

India's involvement in these operations serves multiple purposes:

• Economic Interests: Safeguarding approximately $240 billion of Indian commerce that passes through the Red Sea.
• Protecting Citizens: Ensuring the safety of Indian nationals, who make up a significant portion of the global maritime workforce.
• Political Statement: Demonstrating India’s role as a responsible global power capable of deterring piracy and guaranteeing the safety of maritime commerce.
• Strategic Positioning: Showing India’s readiness to take an active military role in the Indian Ocean, consistent with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policy priorities.
• Modernization Display: Showcasing the results of India’s naval modernization efforts, including the deployment of Kolkata-class stealth destroyers and MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones.
• Rivalry with China: Signaling India’s growing naval capabilities and readiness to counter China’s expanding influence in the region.

Conclusion

India’s proactive stance in countering piracy amid Red Sea tensions not only secures its maritime interests but also positions it as a key player in global maritime security. The success of Operation Sankalp and other related efforts enhance India’s image as a capable and reliable contributor to international security.