Indian Navy deploys three warships in Arabian Sea following merchant ship attack

Mumbai, December 26: After a drone attack on the Liberian-flagged MV Chem Pluto, an Indian merchant vessel, in the Arabian Sea off the west coast of India, the Indian Navy has taken significant steps to enhance maritime security in the region. The attack occurred as the ship was en route to the New Mangalore port from Al Jubail port in Saudi Arabia, and it has raised concerns about the safety of commercial vessels in the Arabian Sea.

The Indian Navy's explosive ordnance disposal team conducted a thorough inspection of the MV Chem Pluto upon its arrival at the Mumbai harbor, two days after the attack. The team aimed to assess the type and nature of the attack, with initial findings suggesting a drone strike. However, further forensic and technical analysis is required to determine the specifics, including the type and amount of explosive used in the attack.

To address the escalating threats to commercial vessels in the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy has deployed a comprehensive strategy. P-8I long-range patrol aircraft have been tasked with surveillance, while three warships, namely INS Mormugao, INS Kochi, and INS Kolkata, have been strategically positioned in the region to maintain a "deterrent presence."

The recent attack on MV Chem Pluto is part of a series of incidents involving commercial vessels in the Arabian Sea, with reports suggesting Iran-backed Houthi militants may be responsible for targeting ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.

A Pentagon spokesperson disclosed on Sunday that the attack on MV Chem Pluto was carried out by "a one-way attack drone fired from Iran." In response, a joint investigation involving various agencies has been initiated to comprehensively analyze the incident.

Despite the attack, MV Chem Pluto has been cleared for further operations by its company-in-charge at Mumbai. The vessel is scheduled to undergo mandatory checks by inspecting authorities before engaging in ship-to-ship transfer of cargo. Subsequently, the ship will undergo docking and repairs to address the damaged portion resulting from the drone attack.

In addition to the specific measures taken for MV Chem Pluto, the Indian Navy has deployed guided missile destroyers in the Arabian Sea to counter the heightened security risks in the region. Long-range maritime reconnaissance P8I aircraft continue to be actively engaged in maintaining domain awareness.

The Western Naval Command's Maritime Operations Centre is closely monitoring the situation, working in coordination with the Coast Guard and other relevant agencies. The deployment of warships, surveillance aircraft, and the ongoing investigation reflects India's commitment to safeguarding maritime security and addressing the evolving threats faced by commercial vessels in the Arabian Sea.

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