The Indian Navy carried out a critical firefighting and rescue operation on 29 June 2025 aboard the Palau-flagged tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 in the North Arabian Sea, successfully ensuring the safety of all 14 Indian crew members on board. The operation was led by INS Tabar, which was on a mission-based deployment in the region when it received a Mayday distress signal reporting a major fire in the vessel’s engine room, approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE.
Reacting with speed and precision, INS Tabar advanced at maximum speed to reach the stricken vessel. Upon arrival, it established communication with the ship’s Master and swiftly initiated firefighting protocols. As a precautionary measure, seven crew members were evacuated to INS Tabar using the ship’s boats. The evacuated personnel were immediately examined by the on-board medical team and found to be uninjured. The remaining crew, including the Master, remained aboard MT Yi Cheng 6 to assist in firefighting operations.
A six-member team from INS Tabar, equipped with advanced firefighting and damage control gear, was initially deployed to combat the blaze. Their early efforts, in coordination with the ship’s crew, substantially reduced the intensity of the fire and contained the smoke to the engine room. Reinforcements from the Navy—comprising five officers and eight sailors—were later dispatched to strengthen the containment effort.
Through sustained and coordinated action, the Indian Navy’s firefighting team brought the fire under control. Continuous temperature monitoring and safety assessments were carried out to ensure complete stabilisation. INS Tabar remains stationed nearby to provide any further support required.
The Navy’s swift and courageous response not only averted a potential maritime disaster but also safeguarded the lives of all Indian nationals aboard. This operation reaffirmed the Indian Navy’s readiness, operational excellence, and humanitarian ethos, further underscoring its role as a trusted first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.
