In a recent maritime security incident, the Indian Navy demonstrated its swift response capabilities by coming to the aid of the Panama-flagged crude oil tanker, MV Andromeda Star. The vessel, carrying 30 crew members, including 22 Indians, found itself under missile attack from Houthi militants on Friday.
Responding promptly to the distress call, the Indian Navy’s destroyer INS Kochi intercepted the endangered tanker and successfully evacuated all crew members to safety. Officials have confirmed that despite the attack, there were no casualties among the crew.
“The Indian Naval destroyer INS Kochi, on a mission in the region, swiftly responded to the attack on the Panama-flagged crude oil tanker MV Andromeda Star on April 26,” stated the Indian Navy.
According to reports from the US Central Command, the attack involved three anti-ship ballistic missiles launched by Iranian-backed Houthi militants from Yemen into the Red Sea, targeting both the merchant vessel Maisha and MV Andromeda Star. Fortunately, the MV Andromeda Star sustained only minor damage.
Following the interception, the Indian Navy conducted an aerial reconnaissance mission with helicopter support to assess the situation aboard the vessel. Additionally, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was deployed to conduct a thorough risk assessment.
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All 30 crew members, including the 22 Indian nationals, were reported safe, and the MV Andromeda Star resumed its scheduled journey to the next port under the protection of the Indian Navy.
“The swift action of the Indian Navy ship reaffirms the commitment and resolve of the Navy in safeguarding the seafarers navigating through the region,” the statement emphasized.
This incident underscores the growing global concerns regarding attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea perpetrated by Houthi militants. In recent weeks, the Indian Navy has been actively involved in providing support to numerous merchant vessels in the Western Indian Ocean region following similar attacks.
