14 Indian Sailors Rescued by US Navy Off Oman Coast
On Sunday, the US Navy successfully rescued 14 Indian seafarers after their ship, the Virat-1, began sinking off the coast of Oman due to a mechanical failure. The Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed that all crew members are safe and healthy and have been transferred to a vessel heading to Mumbai.
The US Central Command shared details about the rescue operation on social media, stating that their naval forces operating in the Middle East were instrumental in assisting the stranded mariners. Reports indicate that the US Navy P-8 aircraft was dispatched to the scene after a distress call from the crew. The aircraft dropped a life raft, which the sailors used to reach safety.
Officials mentioned that the US Navy promptly informed both shore authorities and the Indian Navy about the emergency, as the dhow was located approximately 80 nautical miles east of Ras AI Hadd. The P-8 not only dropped the life raft but also ensured the crew’s safe boarding.
In challenging conditions, an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter was sent to rescue three additional sailors after their life raft capsized. The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Michael Murphy also responded to the distress call.
In an announcement, the Indian Embassy in Oman confirmed that the operation to rescue the MSV Virat-1 crew was completed successfully. Earlier reports revealed that the vessel experienced engine trouble, leading to the crew’s safe transfer to a life raft before help arrived, coordinated with Omani authorities.
