India has increased its naval deployment in the Gulf of Oman to secure the movement of fuel shipments. At the same time, it is relying on Iran to allow Indian vessels safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route.
Officials said the move comes as tensions rise in West Asia after US–Israel strikes on Iran disrupted one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
Warship deployment increases in key zone
As tensions grow, India has expanded its naval footprint in the region. According to sources, the number of Indian warships operating east of the Strait of Hormuz will rise to six or seven.
Earlier this week, an Indian Navy ship escorted an India-flagged oil tanker from the Gulf of Oman to India’s western coast. The tanker had departed from Fujairah, a major refuelling and shipping hub.
Strait disruption impacts global oil flow
The Strait of Hormuz handles nearly 20% of global crude oil trade. However, the ongoing conflict has effectively shut this route, creating serious challenges for global energy supply.
As a result, about 22 India-flagged vessels remain stranded on the western side of the strait, according to the shipping ministry.
Navy escorts fuel shipments home
Despite the risks, India continues to move fuel shipments under tight naval protection. Currently, three Indian warships are actively monitoring the region as tankers pass through.
Recently, two India-flagged LPG carriers—Shivalik and Nanda Devi—successfully crossed the strait. They delivered a combined 92,712 metric tonnes of LPG to Indian ports. Soon after, the tanker Jag Laadki reached Mundra Port with a large crude oil cargo.
Operation Sankalp gains importance
India is carrying out these efforts under Operation Sankalp, which began in 2019 after earlier security threats in the Gulf region. The mission aims to protect Indian-flagged ships, ensure safe sea trade, and maintain stability in the region. However, the Indian Navy has not officially commented on the increased deployment since the current conflict began on February 28.