Houthi Forces Haven't Targeted Any Indian-Flagged Vessel: Admiral Hari Kumar

Defense News ,India :-  The Chief of the Indian Navy, Admiral R Hari Kumar, stated on Saturday that the Indian Navy is taking strong steps to make the Indian Ocean Region safer and more secure. He highlighted the anti-piracy efforts carried out by the Navy in the last 100 days.

During a press conference at the newly constructed Nausena Bhawan, Admiral Kumar responded to questions by saying that no Indian-flagged ships had been targeted by the Houthis while at sea.

Earlier that day, the INS Kolkata, carrying 35 pirates captured in a recent operation off the coast of Somalia, arrived in Mumbai. These pirates were handed over to the Mumbai police to face legal action under Indian laws, specifically the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act of 2022.

Admiral Kumar mentioned a significant mid-sea operation conducted by the Navy along with the Indian Air Force. This operation ended a three-month hijacking of a cargo ship. It involved the deployment of the warship INS Kolkata, long-endurance Sea Guardian drones, P-8I surveillance aircraft, and elite MARCOS commandos being airdropped from a C-17 plane.

During this operation, the Navy seized the former Maltese-flagged vessel, rescued 17 hostages, and captured 35 armed pirates. Experts consider this operation the first successful takeover of a cargo ship from Somali pirates in about seven years, marking the largest operation in the past decade where the Indian Navy apprehended 35 pirates.

Admiral Kumar praised the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act of 2022 as a significant asset for security forces, especially the Indian Navy involved in anti-piracy operations. He emphasized the Navy's increased capability due to this legislation and highlighted their continued efforts to counter piracy attempts.

When asked if these actions have enhanced the Indian Navy's image as the primary responder, Admiral Kumar remarked that India is progressing towards becoming a major power. He stressed that with great power comes great responsibility, affirming the Indian Navy's commitment to protecting national interests in the maritime domain.

Regarding the duration of these operations, Admiral Kumar stated that they would continue until the Indian Ocean is safe and secure. He assured the protection of Indian nationals and vessels, emphasizing the Indian Navy's role as the largest resident naval power in the Indian Ocean.

Admiral Kumar reiterated the Indian Navy's responsibility to maintain the safety, security, and stability of the Indian Ocean Region, ensuring a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based order.

In simpler terms, Admiral R Hari Kumar, the leader of the Indian Navy, spoke about how they are working to make sure the Indian Ocean is safe. He mentioned their recent efforts against piracy and how they rescued hostages and captured pirates. He also talked about a law helping them in these operations.

The Admiral emphasized that the Navy will keep working until the Indian Ocean is secure and assured that they will protect Indian people and ships. He also highlighted the Navy's responsibility in keeping the region safe and stable.