New Delhi. 15 March 2024. INS Kolkata mission-deployed in the Gulf of Aden responded to a request from MSC Sky II, a Liberian-flagged Container Vessel, which was reportedly attacked by a drone/ missile, at about 1900 h (IST) on 04 Mar 24, approx. 90 nm South East of Aden.
Consequent to the attack, the master reported smoke and fire onboard.
INS Kolkata was immediately diverted to render necessary assistance and arrived at the scene of incident by 2230 h (IST). Based on the request of the Master, the MV was escorted from the scene of incident to the territorial waters of Djibouti by the IN ship.
In the early hours of 05 Mar 24, a specialist firefighting team (12 personnel) ex-Kolkata embarked the MV and provided assistance in extinguishing the residual fire/ smoke. Additionally, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team also embarked the MV for residual risk assessment.
The crew of 23 personnel, including 13 Indian nationals are safe and the vessel is proceeding to her next destination.
The swift actions of IN ship reiterate the commitment and resolve of the Indian Navy in safeguarding the seafarers plying through the region.
