In a high-risk, low-light operation, Indian forces successfully rescued 17 crew members of a merchant ship near the Somalian coast. The government made the details of this daring mission public while honouring Wing Commander Akshay Saxena, the pilot of the C-17 military transport aircraft, for his valiant efforts.
Wing Commander Saxena, who was commissioned into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in June 2006 and posted with the C-17 squadron from February 2021, was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) on the eve of Republic Day. The honour was conferred for his “act of indomitable courage and conspicuous gallantry,” according to the Defence Ministry’s statement on January 25.
High-Stakes Mission in Anti-Piracy Operation Sankalp
The rescue mission, conducted on March 16, 2024, was part of Operation Sankalp, an ongoing anti-piracy initiative in the Arabian Sea. The mission was critical as it involved a real threat of small arms fire from the pirates, in addition to extended timelines requiring the aircraft to remain undetected for nearly four hours in foreign airspace.
Given the time-sensitive and classified nature of the operation, Wing Commander Saxena ensured quick aircraft readiness and finalised a capable crew. His strategic planning enabled the seamless execution of the rescue operation.
Tactical Execution and Precision Airdrop
The mission’s objective was located near the Somalian coast, approximately 1,450 nautical miles (NM) away and 540 NM beyond India’s flight information region. The aircraft, under Saxena’s command, airdropped two combat rubberised raiding craft (CRRC) boats along with a team of 18 MARCOs (Marine Commandos) carrying full combat gear. Their mission was to seize control of a pirate-occupied vessel, MV Ruen, which had been launching attacks on merchant ships in the Arabian Sea. The ship had even fired upon INS Kolkata and shot down a naval spotter drone on March 15, 2024.
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To avoid detection, Saxena made a bold tactical decision to switch off all aircraft emitters and fly at low altitudes over the high seas in foreign territory. Despite receiving last-minute changes in the drop location just 50 NM prior to the airdrop, he skillfully guided his crew to ensure a precise execution, ultimately leading to the successful capture of the pirates and the safe rescue of all 17 crew members of MV Ruen.
Exemplary Leadership and Coordination
The Defence Ministry highlighted Saxena’s exceptional inter-service coordination with the Indian Navy and his heightened situational awareness both on the ground and in the air. He maintained utmost secrecy throughout the near-10-hour-long mission, ensuring no intelligence leaks.
His flawless execution, coupled with his leadership, professionalism, and determination, was instrumental in the mission’s success. Recognizing his outstanding performance and dedication to national security, the Indian government honoured him with the prestigious Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry).
This daring operation underscores the capabilities of the Indian armed forces in executing complex, high-risk missions with precision and efficiency, reinforcing their commitment to safeguarding maritime interests in the region.
