Gulf of Aden: An explosion occurred on the Cameroon-flagged LPG tanker MV FALCON, which was sailing 113 nautical miles southeast of the port of Aden, Yemen, en route to Djibouti. The vessel is currently on fire and adrift. Initial reports indicate that 15% of the ship is engulfed in flames, suspected to have been caused by an accident.

According to European Union, an urgent distress call from the ship’s master prompted EUNAVFOR ASPIDES, coordinated by Rear Admiral Andrea Quondamatteo, to launch a search and rescue operation to save the ship’s 26 crew members. The crew comprised one Ukrainian and 25 Indian nationals. The operation involves the Hellenic Frigate HS SPETSAI, which is moving to the scene and utilizing its air asset, along with a French air asset provided by the Command of French Forces in the Indian Ocean (ALINDIEN).

As the situation unfolds, 24 crew members have safely abandoned the vessel and were rescued by nearby vessels MV MEDA and AK CARL. However, one crew member remains on MV FALCON, and another is reported missing.

Further updates from ASPIDES will be provided as more information becomes available. ASPIDES continues to prioritize the protection of lives at sea and support for the free flow of trade in the region.