New Delhi: In a bold and high-risk operation, the Indian Armed Forces successfully carried out a rescue mission to save 17 crew members from a merchant ship under pirate control off the coast of Somalia. The government has now released details of the daring rescue, highlighting the bravery and precision of the forces involved, particularly Wing Commander Akshay Saxena, who piloted the C-17 military transport aircraft for the mission.
Wing Commander Saxena, who was commissioned into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2006 and posted with the C-17 squadron since February 2021, was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) on the eve of Republic Day for his exceptional courage. The Defence Ministry commended Saxena for his quick thinking and leadership, ensuring that the aircraft and crew were ready for the mission’s critical launch despite the secrecy and time-sensitive nature of the operation.
The mission took place on March 16, 2024, as part of India’s ongoing anti-piracy Operation Sankalp in the Arabian Sea. The operation was carried out under the constant threat of small arms fire from the pirates, who had previously attacked merchant vessels, including the INS Kolkata, and shot down a naval drone on March 15, 2024.
In a meticulous and dangerous maneuver, Wing Commander Saxena flew the C-17 aircraft deep into foreign airspace, undetected, for nearly four hours. He decided to fly at low altitude over the high seas and shut off all the aircraft’s emitters to avoid detection, ensuring the success of the mission under difficult conditions. The mission, which covered an area approximately 1,450 nautical miles from India, required exceptional precision to ensure the safety of the crew and the success of the operation.
Saxena airdropped two Combat Rubberised Raiding Craft (CRRC) boats and a team of 18 MARCOs (Marine Commandos of the Indian Navy) onto the pirate-controlled ship. These forces successfully captured the pirates and rescued the MV Ruen along with its 17-member crew. The operation involved flawless coordination between the Indian Navy and Air Force, with Wing Commander Saxena demonstrating exceptional situational awareness and leadership throughout the nearly 10-hour mission.
The Defence Ministry praised Saxena’s leadership, noting his ability to maintain secrecy during the operation while overcoming several challenges, including a last-minute change in drop location. His courage, professionalism, and determination were key factors in the successful rescue and the capture of the pirates, ensuring the safety of the ship’s crew and preventing further attacks on merchant vessels in the region.
This operation serves as a testament to the capabilities and bravery of India’s armed forces, and Wing Commander Saxena’s leadership has earned him widespread recognition for his role in safeguarding national and international maritime security.
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