India moves warships after drone hits Israel-linked merchant ship, 20 Indians part of crew

Indian Coast Guard ship ICGS Vikram is moving towards a merchant vessel in the Arabian Sea off Porbandar cost after the Israel affiliate merchant vessel reported a fire incident suspected to be caused by a drone attack.

The vessel named MV Chem Pluto has crude oil and was going towards Mangalore from a port in Saudi Arabia.

As per inputs received, the fire has been extinguished but it has affected its functioning.

The ICGS Vikram was deployed on the patrol of the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone when it was directed towards the merchant ship in distress.

All crew are safe which includes around 20 Indians. The ICGS Vikram has alerted all ships in the area to provide assistance to it: Defence officials

Indian Navy Officials said Navy warships in the vicinity are also moving towards the merchant ship outside Indian EEZ.