Indian Navy Swiftly Responds to Missile/Drone Attack in Arabian Sea, Ensures Safety of Crew

Mumbai, 24th December 2023: In a prompt and decisive move, the Indian Navy’s mission-deployed platforms swiftly responded to a maritime incident in the Arabian Sea involving a missile/drone attack on MT Chem Pluto. The vessel, carrying 22 crew members (21 Indian and one Vietnamese), caught fire after being struck by a projectile at approximately 0745 hrs on December 23, believed to be a missile or drone.

Reacting swiftly to the unfolding situation, the Indian Navy diverted a maritime patrol aircraft actively engaged in routine surveillance in the area. Additionally, the Indian naval ship Mormugao was rerouted to assess the situation and extend assistance to MT Chem Pluto.

The naval maritime patrol aircraft conducted a thorough overflight of MT Chem Pluto at 1315 hrs on December 23, establishing contact with the crew. Encouragingly, all 22 crew members reported being safe, and the fire onboard had been successfully extinguished. The Navy promptly communicated the evolving situation to all relevant Indian maritime agencies, ensuring coordinated efforts for necessary assistance.

INS Mormugao initiated communication with MT Chem Pluto at 1930 hrs on December 23 to ascertain if any further assistance was required. In a strategic move, CGS Vikram, also present at the scene, received orders to escort the vessel safely to Mumbai.

Upon arrival in Mumbai, a Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialist will embark on MV Chem Pluto to sanitize the vessel and initiate a comprehensive investigation into the incident.