The Indian Navy has completed 100 days of its enhanced maritime security operations, codenamed “Operation Sankalp,” which began in mid-December 2023. This proactive initiative reflects India’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Operation Sankalp was prompted by the need to address the evolving security landscape in the IOR, including the recent Israel-Hamas conflict in the maritime domain. The Indian Navy swiftly reoriented its existing operations to effectively counter these emerging threats.
Over the past 100 days, the Navy has played a vital role as the “First Responder” and “Preferred Security Partner” in the region. It has demonstrably responded to 18 incidents, including the successful resolution of the MV Ruen hijacking in December 2023.
Operation Sankalp has involved the deployment of over 5,000 personnel at sea, with 21 ships patrolling the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian Sea, and the East Coast of Somalia for a combined total of over 450 ship days. Maritime surveillance aircraft have also provided crucial support by flying over 900 hours to identify and address potential threats.
The Indian Navy’s proactive approach has established it as a leader in regional security. Since the rise of piracy in 2008, the IOR has seen a growing presence of warships, but the Indian Navy has taken the initiative to address the full spectrum of maritime security threats.
Operation Sankalp has demonstrably enhanced maritime safety in the IOR. Over 110 lives, including 45 Indian seafarers, have been saved. Additionally, the Navy has escorted over 15 lakh tons of critical cargo, conducted nearly 1,000 boarding operations to verify the legitimacy of vessels, seized over 3,000 kg of narcotics, and reassured over 450 merchant vessels by providing a visible security presence.
The Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) has played a critical role in Operation Sankalp by facilitating information exchange amongst regional partners. Additionally, coordinated missions with the Indian Air Force and other national agencies have highlighted the strong synergy and interoperability of India’s defence forces.
The calibrated response, ingenuity, and unwavering resolve displayed by the Indian Navy during Operation Sankalp have garnered international acclaim. The initiative has demonstrably safeguarded India’s maritime interests, countered piracy, and disrupted narcotics trafficking in the IOR. The Navy’s commitment to “Safety of Life at Sea” has extended to all seafarers, regardless of nationality.
