The Indian Navy has successfully escorted two additional LPG-carrying vessels, MV SYMI and MV Sunshine, through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Both ships are now sailing towards Indian ports, marking a continued effort by India to secure its energy supply routes amidst heightened regional tensions.
Indian Navy's Vital Role in Gulf Security
The Marshall Islands-flagged MV SYMI, laden with 19,965 metric tonnes of LPG, navigated the Strait on May 13. It is anticipated to arrive at Kandla port by May 16. Following closely, the Vietnamese-flagged MV Sunshine, carrying 46,487 metric tonnes of LPG, crossed the strait on May 14 and is expected to reach New Mangalore port by May 18.
These latest transits bring the total number of energy vessels monitored and assisted by Indian forces through the Strait of Hormuz to 13. Of these, 12 were LPG carriers and one was a crude oil vessel, as confirmed by Mukesh Mangal from the Ministry of Ports and Shipping. He emphasized that these two recent vessels, though foreign-flagged, carried cargo destined for India.
Broader Maritime Security Operations
India has significantly bolstered its maritime security operations to safeguard critical energy supplies traversing the conflict-affected Gulf region. The Indian Navy maintains constant communication with commercial vessels and guides them through newly identified safer routes.
To enhance protective measures, the Navy has established additional task forces dedicated to protecting Indian shipping interests in the area. While Indian naval ships do not enter the Persian Gulf directly, they provide crucial assistance to vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz before escorting them through the Gulf of Oman and the North Arabian Sea towards their Indian destinations.
Incident Involving Indian Vessel
In a related development, the ministry also confirmed that the Indian vessel MV Haaji Ali had come under attack in Omani waters during the ongoing conflict. Fortunately, all crew members onboard were successfully evacuated to safe areas and are currently being repatriated to India.