INS Visakhapatnam, on an anti-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden, swiftly responded to a distress call from MV Genco Picardy, which came under a drone attack.
Navy Destroyer INS Visakhapatnam Responds To Drone Attack In Gulf of Aden
In a rapid and effective response, the Indian Navy’s mission-deployed guided missile destroyer, INS Visakhapatnam, on Thursday addressed a distress call from the Marshall Island-flagged MV Genco Picardy following a drone attack on the night of January 17. The destroyer intercepted the vessels at midnight on January 18, 2024, to provide immediate assistance. MV Genco Picardy, with a crew of 22 (including 9 Indians), reported no casualties, and the fire on board was reported to be under control.
To ensure the safety and security of the vessel, Indian Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists from INS Visakhapatnam boarded the MV Genco Picardy in the early hours of January 18 to inspect the damaged area. The Indian Navy said on Thursday it had rescued the crew of a US-owned vessel in the Gulf of Aden after an attack by Yemen’s Houthi movement as tensions in the region’s sea lanes disrupted global trade.
Maritime Anti-Piracy Act, 2022
Admiral Kumar noted the effectiveness of the Maritime Anti-Piracy Act, 2022, in empowering the Indian Navy. He highlighted India’s unique position among the few countries with dedicated legislation to counter piracy, ensuring a legal framework for safeguarding maritime trade routes. Admiral Kumar mentioned the processing of the third aircraft carrier through the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Procurement Board. He assured that INS Vikrant would achieve full operational clearance by the end of the year. Regarding the Red Sea, he emphasized ongoing monitoring and intervention only when Indian interests are threatened. The Navy, responding to increasing attacks in strategic maritime zones, announced enhanced surveillance efforts, deploying assets like the P-8I Neptune MPA and Sea Guardian drones.
