Drone Attack on Cargo Ship in Arabian Sea: Indian Navy Launches Probe

A drone attack on a cargo vessel carrying Indian crew members in the Arabian Sea has prompted an investigation by the Indian Navy. The vessel was struck while en route from Saudi Arabia to India.

On December 24, a cargo vessel, MV Chem Pluto, carrying 21 Indian crew members, came under a drone attack in the Arabian Sea, approximately 217 nautical miles from Porbandar. The attack, believed to have originated from Iran, prompted the Indian Navy to launch an investigation into the incident. The vessel, en route from Al Jubail port in Saudi Arabia to New Mangalore port, is expected to arrive in Mumbai on Monday.

Swift Response from Indian Authorities

Following the attack, the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard swiftly deployed assets, including a warship and maritime patrol aircraft, to the scene. The Navy also diverted its maritime patrol aircraft and the Indian naval ship Mormugao to assess the situation and provide assistance to the vessel. The Indian Coast Guard ship ICGS Vikram is currently providing security to the vessel as it makes its way to Mumbai.

Details of the Attack

According to a Pentagon spokesperson, MV Chem Pluto was struck by a one-way attack drone fired from Iran. The incident occurred approximately 200 nautical miles from the coast of India. The vessel sustained damage and a fire broke out, but there were no reported casualties.

Ongoing Investigation

The Indian Navy has initiated an investigation into the incident, including determining the origin of the strike. The matter is considered sensitive due to the involvement of Iran. The investigation aims to gather more information and ascertain the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Similar Incidents in the Region

The drone attack on MV Chem Pluto comes amid heightened tensions in the region. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have been escalating attacks on ships in the Red Sea during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Another incident involving a Gabon-flagged commercial crude oil tanker, MV Sai Baba, with 25 Indian crew members, was reported in the Southern Red Sea. The vessel was targeted by a drone launched by Houthi militants, but fortunately, there were no injuries.

The drone attack on MV Chem Pluto highlights the evolving security challenges in the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea. The Indian Navy and Coast Guard's prompt response demonstrates their commitment to ensuring the safety of merchant shipping in the region. As the investigation unfolds, more details are expected to emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding this incident.