The Indian Navy is keeping a close eye on the maritime security situation in the vast region from the north and central Arabian Sea to the Gulf of Aden. There has been an increase in piracy and drone attacks targeting merchant vessels transiting through international shipping lanes. The Navy has deployed warships, patrol aircraft, and drones to maintain enhanced surveillance and undertake maritime security operations in the area. In the last week, Indian naval task groups have inspected numerous fishing and other vessels, even boarding some for a first-hand assessment. The long-range P-8I patrol aircraft and drones are conducting persistent surveillance in the region. The Navy’s Information Management and Analysis Centre at Gurugram is also monitoring merchant vessels, especially those flying the Indian flag.