The Indian Navy’s recent successful operation to free a commercial vessel, MV Ruen, from pirates near the coast of Somalia highlights the advanced capabilities of India’s military forces, comparable to the elite forces globally, according to experts. During the nearly two-day-long anti-piracy mission, the navy successfully rescued 17 crew members without any casualties and detained numerous pirates. The operation showcased a comprehensive deployment, including a navy destroyer, patrol ships, an Indian Air Force C-17 for airdropping marine commandos, drones, and a P-8 surveillance aircraft.
Analysts, including John Bradford of the Council on Foreign Relations, commend the Indian Navy for its exceptional training, command, control, and operational capabilities. The coordination of various assets, such as warships, drones, aircraft, and marine commandos, exemplifies a highly effective and risk-averse operation.
The operation occurs amid concerns over the Red Sea’s deteriorating security situation, partly due to attacks by Houthi rebels based in Yemen on commercial shipping. This insecurity potentially benefits Somali pirates in the Horn of Africa region, posing a significant threat to the global economy. Despite Yemen and Somalia’s economic challenges and civil strife, the hijacking of MV Ruen by Somali pirates in December marked a resurgence of piracy, the first since 2017.
The Indian Navy’s interception of MV Ruen as it exited Somali waters to commit further piracy showcases a strategic and forceful response. The destroyer INS Kolkata played a pivotal role, employing drones to verify the pirates’ presence and engaging the pirates after they attacked. The overwhelming response from the Indian forces led to the surrender of 35 Somali pirates.
The successful operation has drawn international praise, including from Bulgarian President Rumen Radev, who expressed his gratitude to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for rescuing the Bulgarian ship and its crew.
Experts like Carl Schuster, a former US Navy captain, laud the professionalism of the Indian Navy and its marine commando force, MARCOS, noting their training’s influence from US and British counterparts. The operation underlines the Indian Navy’s long-standing proficiency in anti-piracy efforts, a critical asset given the ongoing maritime security challenges in one of the world’s key shipping corridors. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs emphasizes India’s commitment to maintaining regional maritime security, reflecting the operation’s broader significance for India’s economic and strategic interests.
