INDIAN NAVY QUICKLY CONTROLS FIRE ON PALAU-FLAGGED TANKER In a swift and coordinated operation, the Indian Navy successfully carried out a high-risk firefighting and rescue mission on the Palau-flagged oil tanker MT Yi Cheng 6 on 29 June 2025, ensuring the safety of all 14 Indian crew members aboard. The incident occurred approximately 80 nautical miles east of Fujairah, UAE, in the North Arabian Sea. INS Tabar, which was deployed on a mission-based assignment, responded to a Mayday call received in the early hours of 29 June, reporting a severe fire outbreak in the engine room of the vessel. Rushing to the scene at maximum speed, INS Tabar established immediate communication with the ship’s Master upon arrival. Prioritising crew safety, seven crew members were evacuated to the naval ship using boats. They were medically examined on board and found to be unharmed. Meanwhile, the remaining crew, including the Master, stayed on MT Yi Cheng 6 to support firefighting efforts. A six-member team from the Indian Navy, equipped with firefighting and damage control gear, was initially deployed to contain the blaze. They were later reinforced by an additional 13 personnel (five officers and eight sailors). The combined efforts of the Indian Navy’s firefighting team and the ship’s crew successfully brought the fire under control, with the smoke confined to the engine room. Temperature checks and continuous monitoring are ongoing to ensure complete safety. INS Tabar continues to provide support at the scene. This successful operation underlines the Indian Navy’s rapid response capability, professional readiness, and commitment to safeguarding lives at sea, reinforcing India’s role as a dependable first responder in the Indian Ocean Region.