The Indian Navy successfully guided a crude oil tanker, registered under the Panama flag and carrying 30 crew members, including 22 Indians, out of danger after it was targeted by Houthi militants.
The attack on the MV Andromeda Star occurred on April 26, and the Indian Navy destroyer INS Kochi promptly responded to the incident.
According to officials, all crew members are safe. The US Central Command reported that the Houthi militants launched three anti-ship ballistic missiles from Yemen into the Red Sea, targeting the MV Andromeda Star and another merchant vessel called Maisha.
Fortunately, the vessel only sustained minor damage. The Indian Navy intercepted the tanker and conducted an aerial reconnaissance using a helicopter to assess the situation.
Additionally, an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team was deployed to evaluate any residual risks.
The Navy confirmed that all 30 crew members, including the 22 Indian nationals, are safe, and the vessel is continuing its scheduled transit to the next port.
This incident highlights the Indian Navy’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety of seafarers in the region.
It is worth noting that there has been a rise in concerns globally regarding attacks on commercial vessels by Houthi militants in the Red Sea.
In recent weeks, the Indian Navy has provided assistance to several merchant vessels in the Western Indian Ocean following similar attacks.
