The recent incidents of hijacking on high seas and numerous maritime threats underscore the need for an increased involvement of the Indian Navy in addressing these challenges
Amidst a rising global threat to maritime security, a prompt and robust international response is essential to ensure safety. The recent successful rescue mission by the Indian Navy's MARCOS commandos underscores the need for a decisive approach to addressing maritime risks.
In a swift operation off the coast of Somalia, the Indian Navy rescued all 21 crew members from the distressed cargo vessel MV Lila Norfolk, showcasing their rapid response capabilities. This highlights the evolving role of the Indian Navy in countering piracy and sea hijacking.
The Resurgence of Piracy:
Recent events indicate a troubling resurgence in maritime piracy, exemplified by the hijacking of 'MV Lila Norfolk.' Addressing this requires unified international efforts to curb piracy and enhance global maritime security. A comprehensive analysis of global maritime incidents reveals multifaceted challenges, including piracy, hijackings, and various security threats.
From January to September 2023, piracy incidents surged to 99, surpassing the previous year's count of 90. Despite a relatively low level of violence towards crews, concerns about crew safety persist, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach. Regions like the Gulf of Guinea, the Singapore Straits, the Indonesian archipelagic area, and Callao Anchorage in Peru have witnessed heightened incidents, emphasizing the global nature of maritime security and the urgency for a holistic strategy to safeguard international waters.
The Evolving Role of the Navy:
At the heart of effective strategies for global maritime security lies the growing role of the Indian Navy, showcasing an integrated model of intelligence, technology, and collaboration among different forces. The recent successful rescue mission exemplifies this model, demonstrating the seamless integration of elite Special Forces, advanced naval assets, and cutting-edge technology to neutralize maritime threats effectively.
This integration is crucial for the success of maritime security, involving various forces and cutting-edge technology to enhance naval capabilities in responding to evolving threats. Establishing strong international cooperation and an efficient early warning mechanism is imperative, and the Indian Navy's response serves as a model for collaborative initiatives and timely information sharing globally.
Long-Term Strategy:
Despite a perceived decline in international maritime piracy, recent events suggest a resurgence, emphasizing the need for a broader legal framework, international collaboration, and effective law enforcement. The Indian Navy's growing role advocates for comprehensive, long-term solutions to ensure sustained maritime security. Robust mechanisms at the international level, including collaborative frameworks and agreements, are essential for addressing maritime threats collectively.
Implementing an effective early warning system is a critical measure to preclude and mitigate maritime incidents. The IMB's Piracy Reporting Centre, a 24-hour point of contact to report piracy crimes, plays a vital role in coordinating with response agencies, issuing warnings, and providing insights into modern piracy trends, contributing significantly to global maritime security.
Harnessing Technology: Reflecting the growing role of the Indian Navy is its embrace of advanced technology to enhance maritime security measures. Leveraging surveillance systems, drones, and communication tools, the Navy stays ahead of evolving threats. Continuous technological innovation is key to remaining at the forefront, as seen in the re-evaluation of security measures prompted by recent attacks in the Red Sea.
Anti-Maritime Piracy Bill: Legislative measures, such as the Anti-Maritime Piracy Bill, represent a comprehensive approach at the national level. Aligned with UNCLOS, the bill addresses piracy definitions, offences, penalties, jurisdiction, and other crucial aspects. The recently passed Maritime Anti-Piracy Bill 2019 outlines punishments, enforcement measures, jurisdiction, bail conditions, and a presumption of guilt, reaffirming India's commitment to maritime security.
The Maritime Threats
Geopolitical Factors, Economic Interests, and Global Cooperation: The response is imperative to safeguard India's interests and ensure regional stability in the face of maritime challenges. The recent hijacking incident serves as a poignant reminder of the nation's vulnerability, prompting the deployment of advanced naval assets like INS Chennai and cutting-edge surveillance technology. This swift and decisive response underscores the immediacy of maritime threats while emphasizing the continuous vulnerability in India's maritime domain.
An analysis of recent hijackings offers valuable insights into evolving tactics employed by maritime threats, guiding the development of targeted strategies. The incident involving 'MV Lila Norfolk' emphasizes the necessity for a dynamic approach to safeguard seafarers and maritime assets.
India's deployment of INS Chennai and advanced surveillance technology reflects the multifaceted nature of contemporary maritime threats, extending beyond traditional piracy and hijackings. These challenges demand diverse capabilities for detection, prevention, and response, demonstrating the nation's commitment to addressing threats comprehensively.
The persistent challenges in combating maritime piracy underscore the need for sustained global cooperation, and the role of the Indian Navy sets a formidable precedent for a united front against maritime threats.
(The author is an ICSSR-Post Doctoral Fellow, School of National Security Studies, Central University of Gujarat. The views expressed are personal)
