The Indian Navy has initiated Operation Urja Suraksha to protect Indian-flagged energy vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating West Asia tensions. Over five frontline warships are deployed around this vital chokepoint, escorting critical LNG, LPG, and crude oil carriers.
Mission Objectives
The operation prioritizes safe evacuation of 22 stranded India-bound vessels, including 20 high-priority tankers. Key successes include escorting LPG carriers Pine Gas and Jag Vasant (92,000 tonnes total) through the strait, expected at Indian ports by March 26-27, following earlier successes with Shivalik, Nanda Devi, and Jag Laadki.
Strategic Coordination
Conducted with minimal publicity for operational security, the mission coordinates with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed West Asia security impacts, focusing on supply chain resilience for defence procurement amid potential escalations.
Energy Security Context
With the strait handling 20% of global oil and India’s heavy import reliance, naval presence under Operation Sankalp (revived from 2019) ensures uninterrupted energy flows. This proactive stance balances diplomacy and deterrence during the Iran-US-Israel conflict.
