In a swift and high-risk operation, the Indian Navy has bolstered the salvage efforts of the fire-stricken cargo vessel MV WAN Hai 503 with the aerial insertion of a specialist salvage team on 13 June 2025. The operation comes amidst escalating challenges posed by onboard fire and deteriorating weather conditions at sea.
Seaking Helicopter Deployed from INS Garuda
The salvage team was swiftly mobilized from INS Garuda, Kochi, and embarked aboard a Naval Seaking helicopter, specially equipped for such complex maritime operations. Braving turbulent winds and smoke from the vessel, the helicopter successfully winched down the team onto the deck of MV WAN Hai 503.
Once onboard, the salvage specialists managed to secure a towline connection with the salvage tug Offshore Warrior, a key step in stabilizing and eventually towing the distressed ship to safety.
Team Extracted Safely After Successful Towline Connection
Following the successful connection, the salvage team was safely extracted by the same Naval helicopter, completing a critical intervention under high-risk conditions. The operation demonstrated precision coordination, skill, and rapid decision-making under pressure.
Naval and Coast Guard Forces Intensify Salvage Coordination
At present, INS Sharda and Offshore Support Vessel (OSV) MV Triton Liberty are actively supporting the ongoing salvage operations, working in close coordination with the Indian Coast Guard and other maritime response agencies. The involvement of multiple agencies underlines the urgency and scale of the rescue mission.
The Indian Navy’s swift aerial intervention has not only reinforced the salvage operation but also served as a decisive tactical contribution to preventing further escalation of the maritime crisis.
About Indian Navy
The Indian Navy is the naval branch of the Indian Armed Forces, responsible for safeguarding India’s maritime borders and interests. It is a multi-dimensional force, operating above, on, and under the surface of the oceans. The Navy plays a vital role in national security, maritime trade, and disaster relief.
The Indian Navy, established in 1612 as the East India Company’s Marine, became independent on January 26, 1950. As of 2025, it operates over 150 ships, 250 aircraft, and has a personnel strength exceeding 67,000. The Navy includes one aircraft carrier, 10 destroyers, 13 frigates, and 17 submarines. Headquartered in New Delhi, it ensures maritime security across 7,500 km of coastline and 1,200 islands. Its three commands – Western, Eastern, and Southern – maintain strategic readiness in the Indian Ocean Region.
