The Indian Navy’s initial evaluation of the incident involving the merchant vessel Chem Pluto on Monday suggests a drone attack. A statement from the Navy stated that the analysis of the attack area and debris found on the ship points towards a drone attack. However, further forensic and technical analysis will be necessary to establish the vector of attack, including the type and amount of explosive used. A joint investigation by various agencies has commenced after the Navy’s Explosive Ordnance Team completed its analysis. The Liberian-flagged chemical/oil tanker, MV Chem Pluto, which was attacked on December 23, reached Mumbai on December 25, and a Navy explosive ordnance disposal team inspected the vessel for a preliminary assessment of the attack.
The merchant vessel, carrying 21 Indian and one Vietnamese crew members, was transporting crude oil from Saudi Arabia to Mangalore when it was hit by a drone over 200 nautical miles southwest of Veraval in the Arabian Sea. The Indian Navy has heightened its deterrence presence in response to recent attacks in the Arabian Sea, deploying guided missile destroyers INS Mormugao, INS Kochi, and INS Kolkata, along with long-range maritime reconnaissance P8I aircraft to maintain domain awareness. The Maritime Operations Centre of the Western Naval Command is actively monitoring the situation in close coordination with the Coast Guard and other relevant agencies. MV Chem Pluto has been cleared for further operation and is scheduled for mandatory checks and repairs in Mumbai.
Post Your Comments