Posted On:
03 NOV 2026 6:05PM by PIB Delhi
The Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy successfully undertook a joint long-range maritime airdrop mission on the intervening night of 01 & 02 November 2026 in support of ongoing anti-piracy operations more than 3000 Km from Mumbai in the Arabian Sea.
An IAF C-17 Globemaster Ill aircraft was deployed at short notice to air-deliver specialised tactical equipment and MARCOS personnel in coordination with Indian Navy assets, including IN ship and a maritime recce aircraft.
The mission involved complex operational coordination over an extended maritime distance, with the final deployment location requiring dynamic adjustments. Despite challenging conditions, the C-17 crew successfully executed the airdrop, enabling the MARCOS team to be safely inducted for further operations.
The mission, covering over 6,000 kilometres and involving more than eight hours of flying, demonstrated the Indian Air Force's capability to undertake long-range, precision air-delivery operations in support of joint maritime missions.
The successful operation underscores the high degree of synergy between the Indian Air Force and the Indian Navy, and India's continued commitment to maritime security, freedom of navigation and the safety of international shipping in the Indian Ocean Region.
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JS/VK/GK