Indian Navy airlifts salvage team to fire-hit MV Wan Hai 503, connects tow in rough seas; rescue ops underway.
In a high-risk mission amidst raging fire and adverse sea conditions, the Indian Navy successfully conducted an aerial insertion and extraction of a salvage team onboard the distressed container vessel MV Wan Hai 503 on 13th June 2025.
Responding swiftly to the escalating crisis, the salvage team was airlifted from INS Garuda, Kochi, aboard a Seaking helicopter. Braving harsh weather and onboard flames, the naval crew winched the team down onto the burning vessel. Once aboard, the team connected a tow line to the salvage tug Offshore Warrior, enabling towing operations to commence.
Following the critical tow connection, the team was safely extracted by the same helicopter, marking a highly coordinated and courageous rescue effort.
Currently, the Indian Navy’s INS Sharda and OSV MV Triton Liberty are engaged in the ongoing salvage operations, working closely with the Indian Coast Guard and other maritime agencies.
This bold action has significantly bolstered the firefighting and salvage response, showcasing the Indian Navy’s readiness, precision, and unwavering commitment to maritime safety.
Source: PIB
