The EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTA advised ships sailing off the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden to reroute at least 150 nautical miles (nm) further East of the existing traffic route amid the increased threat of attack using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV).

The advisory from the EU Maritime Security operation in the Western Indian Ocean and the Red Sea comes after a Houthi drone strike on an MSC container ship in the Indian Ocean.

"Ships sailing off the Indian Ocean are recommended to maintain a heightened state of vigilance in light of the recent escalation of Houthi attacks using drones in the Indian Ocean," EU ATALANTA said.

 [Source: EU ATALANTA]

The agency noted that since the end of November 2023, multiple incidents involving drone and Missile attacks have taken place in the South Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and lately in the Indian Ocean.

It noted that "MSC Orion" was targeted by a UAV 200NM southeast of Socotra Island whilst transiting in the Indian Ocean, northbound toward Salalah in Oman.

"This attack confirms that potential attacks can take place in the Indian Ocean up to 800 nautical miles from the areas under Houthi control in Yemen," the advisory said.

"In light of this attack, assessed UAV range and last public statements, it is suggested to establish an alternative sea route no less than 150 nautical miles east of the current traffic routes."

EU ATALANTA also recommends that vessels implement "random alterations" in course and speed during NAVTRACKS, along with adopting a more restrictive AIS policy to minimize positional exposure.