Operation Sankalp
Operation Sankalp is the Indian Navy's initiative aimed at ensuring the security of the regional maritime domain. The term Sankalp originates from Sanskrit and signifies the concept of "Commitment". It aligns with the Indian Navy's objective of safeguarding India's shipping interests and trade routes.[1]
Launched on 19 June 2019, Op Sankalp primarily focused on guaranteeing the safe transit of Indian-flagged vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz amidst escalating security concerns in the area. The protection of India's commercial fleet and maritime commerce is emphasised as a significant goal within the Indian Navy's responsibilities. Due to the intricate nature of the mission and the global context in which Indian Naval vessels operate, Op Sankalp is being executed in the Indian Ocean Region through active engagement and meticulous coordination with the Indian Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, Shipping, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Directorate General of Shipping.[2][3][4]
2024
Indian Navy Marine Commandos - MARCOS were deployed via IAF's C-17 aircraft in a rescue operation involving the Maltese-flagged bulk carrier vessel MV Ruen, which had been seized by Somalian pirates. The cargo vessel was taken near the Yemeni island of Socotra in December 2023 and was located approximately 2600 km away from the Indian Coast. This successful counter-piracy operation received assistance from the Indian warship INS Subhadra, INS Kolkata, High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE RPA) drones, and a P8I maritime patrol aircraft. The “high tempo” mission aboard merchant vessel lasting for about 40 hours concluded by safely evacuating 17 crew members and compelling 35 pirates to surrender on 16 March 2024.[5][6]
References
- ^ Sayan Chatterjee (8 May 2021). "Indian Navy's Operation Sankalp; safeguarding India's Maritime Trade routes". The Statesman. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
- ^ "Indian Navy Executes OP Sankalp". pib.gov.in. Delhi: Ministry of Defence (India), Government of India. Press Information Bureau. 20 June 2019. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
- ^ "Op SANKALP : 3RD YEAR OF INDIAN NAVY'S MARITIME SECURITY OPERATIONS". Janam Online. 20 June 2022. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
- ^ "INS Talwar Deployed in the Gulf as Part of the Navy's Op Sankalp". FORCE Magazine. 21 June 2022. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
- ^ "Indian Navy and Air Force Conduct Complex Anti-Piracy Operation". Naval News. 17 March 2024. Retrieved 20 March 2024.
- ^ "IAF Shares Visuals of C-17 Precision Airdrop from Joint Op with Navy, Leading to Surrender of 35 Somali Pirates". News18. 17 March 2024. Retrieved 20 March 2024.