Wing Commander Akshay Saxena Receives Vayu Sena Medal

January 29, 2025

Wing Commander Akshay Saxena has been awarded the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for his exceptional contributions during anti-piracy operations in the Arabian Sea. This recognition marks the increasing threats posed by piracy in international waters, particularly from Houthi rebels targeting merchant vessels. The operation, conducted on 16 March last year, was part of the Indian Navy’s Operation Sankalp, aimed at ensuring maritime security in the region.

Key Facts About Vayu Sena Medal

The Vayu Sena Medal (VM) was instituted on January 26, 1960 to honor exceptional devotion to duty or acts of courage by Indian Air Force personnel.
In 1994, it was split into two categories:
- VM (Gallantry): For acts of courage.
- VM (Devotion to Duty): For outstanding service and commitment.

Operation Sankalp Overview

Operation Sankalp was initiated by the Indian Navy in response to escalating maritime threats.
It focuses on safeguarding Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
Following attacks on merchant ships in June 2019, this operation has become crucial for maintaining safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Currently, 23 warships are deployed, providing an average of 16 safe passages daily.

Wing Commander Saxena’s Mission Details

Wing Commander Saxena led a critical mission involving the airdrop of Combat Rubberised Raiding Craft (CRRC) and marine commandos.
The operation targeted a pirate-controlled ship that had attacked merchant vessels and opened fire on INS Kolkata.
The mission required precise execution under time constraints and the need for secrecy.
Saxena ensured aircraft readiness and coordinated effectively with the Navy.

Significance of the Operation

The operation puts stress on the importance of inter-service coordination in modern military operations. It demonstrates the Indian Armed Forces’ capability to respond swiftly to maritime threats. The successful execution of this mission also reflects the strategic importance of the Arabian Sea for trade and security.

INS Talwar and Maritime Security

INS Talwar, a Talwar-class frigate, plays role in Operation Sankalp. This vessel is equipped for anti-air, anti-ship, and anti-submarine warfare. Its deployment marks India’s commitment to securing its maritime interests, particularly given its reliance on oil imports from the Gulf region.

Geopolitical Context of the Persian Gulf

The Persian Gulf is vital for global oil trade, containing two-thirds of the world’s proven oil reserves. Its strategic significance is telld by the heavy maritime traffic that passes through. The Gulf of Oman serves as a critical shipping route, linking the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf, making its security a shared interest among major oil exporters and importers.

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