Today, the Indian Navy commemorated a critical milestone, completing 100 resilient days of intensified maritime security operations dubbed ‘Op Sankalp’. This robust campaign, initiated in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict’s maritime manifestations since mid-December 2023, signifies a vital period of strategic operations enhancing the navy’s role as the ‘First Responder’ and ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
The Indian Navy sprang into action during the early days of ‘Op Sankalp’, most notably during the high-seas drama involving the hijacking of the Malta-flagged Bulk Carrier MV Ruen on 14 December 2023. Since then, the IN has adeptly navigated 18 critical incidents, showcasing unwavering determination and operational excellence.
Under ‘Op Sankalp’, over 5000 naval personnel have been dedicated to the mission, contributing over 450 ship days at sea across more than 21 ships and amassing over 900 hours of aerial surveillance with maritime aircraft. These efforts span three strategic operational zones: the Gulf of Aden and its vicinity, the Arabian Sea, and waters off the East Coast of Somalia.
This extensive operation has yielded significant accomplishments, including the safeguarding of over 110 lives, among them 45 Indian seafarers, the escort of 1.5 million tons of vital commodities such as fertilizers and crude oil, the execution of nearly 1000 boarding operations, the seizure of over 3000 kg of narcotics, and ensuring over 450 merchant vessels felt the reassuring presence of the Indian Navy.
With piracy rearing its head in 2008, the Indian Ocean has since been a hotspot for naval activity, welcoming flotillas from both regional and international forces. Today, the Indian Navy stands out as a leader, taking decisive measures against a spectrum of maritime threats and consolidating India’s maritime sovereignty.
Key to the successful execution of ‘Op Sankalp‘ is the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), based in Gurugram. The center has emerged as a vital hub for maritime information exchange, complementing the Indian Navy’s efforts with invaluable intelligence and support. Collaborations with the Indian Air Force and various national agencies have further underscored the operation’s hallmark of synergy and interoperability.
As the Indian Navy’s relentless endeavor under ‘Op Sankalp’ continues to earn international laurels, its calibrated, innovative responses have effectively safeguarded maritime interests, counteracted threats, and severely crippled the resurgence of piracy and narcotics trade in the IOR. This campaign reaffirms the Indian Navy’s commitment to the universal principle of ‘Safety of Life at Sea’, underscoring its role as a vigilant protector of the maritime community without distinction.
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